^^^^^Biiiiilii 




?%^^!KKO!>;>!>!'.*"*"*^X;*'.!*!.*..*..*..*■.''•■''■•''•-••*-• -ft: 

i"" Library of Congress. 



55 



Chap. P--7-^ 

SHELF -..„ii-7-6-\.^ 



, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. ;..^ 




< 

< 

CO 



SOMERVILLE, 
PAST AND PRESENT 



^n 3ffu6tratcb J^ietoricaf ^out^enir 



COMMEMORATIVH OF THE TwENTV-FlFTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

ESTABEISHMENT OF THE CiTV GOVERNMENT OF 

SOMERVIELE, MASSACHUSETTS. 



EDIlKli hV 



EDWARD A. SAMUELS, 

AUTHOR OF "OKNITHOLOGV AND OOI.OGV n|. NEW ENGLAND," " MAMMALIA^ OF NEW ENGLAND, 

"among the birds," "with fly-rod AND CAMERA," 

EDITOR OF "a thousand MILES' WALK," "THE LIVING WORLD," ETC. 

AND 

HENRY H. KIMBALL, A. M. 



BOSTON: 
PUBLISHED BY SAMUELS AND KIMBALL, 

1897. 






9G80 

Col'YKHlIlT, 1897, 
1?V SaMI'KI.S \ KlMl'.M.I. 




Hi *•(• CU\G/ 



898 



INTRODUCTION. 



I N placing; this volume before the public, the editors desire to express their 
gratitude for the kindly encouragement, the more than liberal su])port 
they haxe received frf)m the people of Somerville. A work of sucii magni- 
tude as this, one involving such a great amount of detail labor, could not 
well be prepared without the generous assistance, the hearty co-operation 
of a large portion of the community ; and that such aid has been given us. 
together with a generall) expressed approval of our undertaking, we gladly 
put upon record. 

In addition to much other valuable assistance that has been received, 
many important papers have been prepared for us, and they present a fairly 
complete rl'siiDic of the history of the city's various institutions. 

'I'he scholarly contributions of Charles I). Klliot, (Jeorge I. Vincent, 
Joshua H. I)a\is, I'rank K. Merrill, John S. Hayes, Albert V.. Winship,- 
William K. Jirigham, j. ( ). llayden, and many others will receive the ap- 
]3ro\al of all who are interested in Somerville's history, and they will serve 
as an invaluable basis for the work of the future historian. 

To the " Somerville journal," the " Somerville ( 'itizen '' and ]u\\n K. 
Whiting we are indebted for several of the illustrations we have used, also 
to Mr. (Gordon .\. Southworth for the portraits of "Citizens for whom Soni- 
er\ ille .Schools were named," and for reports containing their biographies. 
The typographical and artistic features of the volume si)eak for themselves : 
it has been our Cf^nstant aim to secure the best available work, and we hope 
that our eflorts will receive the a]iprobation of the public. 

Somerville is a municipality of diversified interests, and of many 
social centers, i fence, he who is prominent in one section may, ])erhaps, 
be almost unknown in others. It would seem desirable, therefore, that the 
various interests, business, official and social, should have ample re]M-esen- 
tation. and. acting somewhat on the principle outlined by City Librarian 
John S. Hayes in one of his admirable reports (1.S93), that we should " i\e- 
ject nothing that relates to Somerville, or her children, and should gladl\' 
preserve everything that comes to us which will aid the future student in 



obtainiiiij a correct idea of how the present generation eniplojed its time." 
a i^enerous number of portraits of citi-^ens who have become prominent in 
some walk in life is presented. It is a collection of which any city may 
well be proud, and it will be treasured not only by the present but by gen- 
erations to come. 

(Ireatl) to our regret, historical sketches of some of the organizations 
were not received in time to obtain a place in this volume, but a reasonably 
full showing is made of the almost numberless associations for which this 
city is distinguished. 

KitWAKD A. Samiki.s. 
Hkn"K\ II. KiMi:\i.l.. 



CONTENTS. 



SO^IERVILLE'S HISTORY. 

CHAPTEU 1 . . • • • • • • • • '/ 

Orhux vm. SKiTLKN.KNT.- Grants, Etc.-Dekd from Wku-Co^kv and Suuaw- 
Sa^em.-Karlv To,.o,;rai'HY.-First Settlers. -Govkrnok W.nthr.-ps Ien 
Hii.T.s Farm. 

(■[lAPrERII . . • ■ ■ • • • • -21 

Fvri Y Events —rvsiURiM; am. Heroin.;. — Characteristics ok Early Immigrants. 

_ Machinery OF Pkimitive Industries Sef in Motion. - Establishment of; ImvN 

(;oVERNMENT OF ChARLESTOXYN. - M CNICIEAL RE.^ULATIONS. - PERSON.-E NON GrAT^. 

First Highways —The Stinted Common. — Churches and .Schools. — Peti- 
^ ,x OF EzEKiEL Cheever. -The F.rst Town School. - Military ( )rganizations 
AND Fortifications. — King Philir's War. — Indian Allies. 

CHAPTER III ..■••■•••• •'"^ 

ADVENT OF AnDROS AND CoNSE-jUENCES TO THE CoLONISTS. - TITLES TO EsTATI^ 

llniRILED.-TEN HILLS FARM AND ITS OWNERS. - A FAVORITE HoME loR 

mERNORS.- "THE BLESSING OF THE BAV " BUILT AND LAUNCHED. -( AFI AN 

ROKERT TEMVLE. -SLAVE HoLDERS IN SOMERVILLE. - T.IE HKST ■^'V-™^ ^ 

AMERICA. - COLONEL SAMUEL .Iv.UEs. - The OLD Powder H.nsK. - JEAN Mallei . 
— A Tr\i;ic Legend. 

CHAPTER IV "^5 

Friction Between the Colonies and Home Government. — Preparations for the 
GREvr Struggie.- SEIZURE OF Powder. - First Hostile Demonstration of 
the'rfvoiution. — The Whole Country in Arms. — Resignation (.f Lieul.- 
Governor Thomas Oliver. - Arbitrary Measures of the British Government. 
-Secreiion of Arms and Distribution of Military ^"'"I'l-'^s by the Cx.lo- 
^ists —Hostile Steps taken by the British.— 1 he Patriots \\arned.— Paul 
REVERE's R,DE.- Battle of Lexington. -Roads in Somerville Iraversed by 
British Troops. — Battle of Bunker Hill. — \ivid Scenes. 

CHAPTER V 57 

The Siege of Boston.— Intrenchments Made. — Exchange of Prisoners. — Battle 
of'hog Island. -G.4GE's Proclamation of Amnesty. - Iortifications on 

?ROSTECT AND WINTER HiLLS. - ARRIVAL OF GENER.M.S WASHINerPON, PUTNAM 

^^;o I EE — Declaration of the Continental Congress. — Descriptions of the 
PATRIOTS' Camps. — Sufferings of the People and Troops. — First Unfurling 
OF the New Flag of the United Colonies. — Seizure of Dorchester HEiGHTb. 
Evacuation of Boston by the British. 

CHAPTER VI ...••••••• '"^ 

Designed Isolation of New England. — Surrender of Burgoyne. — Hessian 
Prisoners Quartered in Somerville. - Ball and Supper given by General 
Riedesel's Wife. — Poor Barracks for the Prisoners. — Scarcity of i-UEU- 
Removal of the Prisoners. 



' il.M'l I'.R \ II .......... 77 

Ri:\i\.\i. oi Imu'mkiivs akikk tiii. Ri.voi.i tion. — Hkkk-makim; in S(>.mi;k\ ii.i.e. — 

CkI.KBRAIKI) I'AK.MS. — TUK B1.K.UHKKV. — ThK M II iDI.KSh X CaNAL. — ( 'o.Mri.KTIUN 

or 1!kiii;ks TO Hoston. — Thk Firsi Raii.koad itikoi cm Somkrvm.i k. — KsiAin.isn- 

MK.M ol- THK McLkaN A^VI.IM. — RoHBI.KY oK MaJoK UkaV. — TllK L'RSIJI.I.NK 
CoNVKNT AM) IIS I )i;STKl (TIoN. - - ToWN I.MIKoVI.M KN 1 S. — KsTAHl.ISH.MK.NT Ol 

ScirooL.s. — Bk(;i.\m.\(; of a Kirk Dkpartmkm. — Sitakation ok .Somkkvii.i.k kko.m 

Cir ARLKSTOWN. 

< IIAl'lKR \ III . . . . . . . . .86 

Town BKfiiNNiNcs. — Exi-knsksok Eari.v Town Covkrnmknt. — 1Ii(;iiwav.s Dkscribed. 

— Growiii ok tiik Town. — Sirvev ok tiik Town. — Raii.roahs and tiikir Kxien- 
sion. — HoK.sK Raii.roaiis Oi'KNKU. lNi>rsTRiKs OK Eari.v Somi-rvii.i.k. — Firk 

DkI'ART.MENTANI) ITsCroWTH. — ()R(;ANIZATI0N ok THE SoMEKVlLLE LlUHT InKANTRY 

— Schools and tiikir Ukvki.oimknt. -Churches. 

CH.vrrKR IX . . . . . . . . . .105 

.Sti.MERVII.I.K.'s ResI'ONSE To PRESIDENT LINCOLN'S CaI.I.S KOR MeN. — .-Vl'I'ROI'RIATIONS 

BY THE Town KOR Soldiers and their Families. — Holnties Okkerkd. — So.mer- 

VILLE I-I(;HT INKANTRY. — So.MERVILLE GUARD. — VOLUNTEERS FORIHeWaR. — STATE 

Bounties. — Okkicers ok So.merville Companies in the War. — Service durinc 
THE War ok the C\)MI'anies krom So.mkrvii.i e. — The Martyr Roll. 

CH.\]TKR X . . . . . . . . . .118 

IMI'KOVEMKNT OK IIkUUV.VYS. — (JaS INTRODUCED. - W.VIER SUI'I'LY. — SeWKRS. — 

Great 1.mi'ro\ ements. — Central Hill Park. — Horse Raii roads. — The Town 
Farm. — Aite.mi'ts to Divide the Town. — City Charter and Hall. — First 
City Ei.kciton. 

CHAPTER XI 126 

Api'Reciaiion in X'ai.ue ok Real Est.vik. — (jreat Increase ok Houses. — Steam 
Railroads. — Extension ok Streei Railw.ws. — West End Railway — Widen- 
ing OV SOMERVILI.E AVENUE AND BroADWAV. — TllE BroADWAV PakK. — ThE 

Miller's River Nuisance. — Annexation to Boston Dlscussed. — Parks and 
Boulevards. — Tuits College. — Old Land.mark.s. 



HISTORY OF THK CITY (;0Y1:RXMI:\ F. 



CHAPTER XII 



145 



First Board ok Okkicers. — Statisih^ m- Poi'Ui.aiion, Valuation, etc. — The 
Miller's River Nuisance. — (}RE.vr I.mi-rovemenis Made. — .Mayor Furber's 
ADMINISTR.A.T10N. — Erechon ok New Police Buii.dinc. — CoNSTRUcrK)N ok the 
Broadway Park. — Gre.\t Sanitary Improve.ment. — Mayor Belknap's Admin- 
istration. — Construction ok Larc.e Sewers. — Co.mpletion ok the Public Park. 

— First Contribution to the Sinking Fund. — Ad.ministr.viton ok Mayor Bruce. 

— Recunstriktion ok Bridges. — Ad.ministr.viton ok Mayor Cummincs. — (Jreat 
Improve.ments on Central Hill. — Erection ok New Buildini; kor the Public 
Library. 

CHAPTER XIII ......... 153 

Administr.viton ok Mayor Burns. — The Water Supply. — Appi.iovtion ok the 
Sinking Fund. — Reduction ok the City Debt. — Introduction ok the Police 
Signal Sysi EM and Electric Si reet Lighting. — Construciton ok New School- 
houses. — .\d.ministration ok Mayor Pope. — Introduition oka High W.vier 
Service. — The Old 1'owder House. —The Somkrville Hosi'hai. Organized and 
e.stablisiied. 



CHAPTER XIV . -15^ 

Administration ok Mayor Hodgkins. — Establishment of -iiie Nathan Tufts Park. 

— Celebration of the Semi-Centennial Anniversakv. — Pavinc; Imporiani' 
Thoroughfares. — Erection of the New High School Building. — A New City 
Hall Adyocated. — Erection of a New Central Fire Station. — Great Im- 
troyements Made in Various Directions. — Administration of Mayok Pekrv. 
Changf:s at the City Hall. — Important Improvemenis in the Se\yer System. 

— High Credit of the City. — Functions of Different 1>oards of the Chy 
Goyernment. — Scope of City Charter. 



HISTORY OF THE SCHOOLS. 
CHAPTER XV . . . . . . . . . -177 

Fr<)M IcS42 i'o the close of the Superintendency of Joshua H. Dayis, i88S. 

CHAPTER XVI ......... 194 

Superintendency of Clarence E. Meleney. 

CHAPTER XVII ......... 202 

Superintendency of Gordon A. Southworth. 

( HAPTER XVIII ......... 226 

EDUCATIONAL INTERESTS. 

CHAPTER XIX ......... 237 

HISTORY OF THE WATER-WORKS. 

CHAPTER XX ......... 253 

THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND POLICE COURT. 

CHAPTER XXI ......... 25.S 

HISTORY OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARY. 

CHAPTER XXII ......... 269 

HISTORY OF i'HE FIRE DEPARTMENT. 

CHAPTER XXIII ......... 2S2 

HISTORY OF THE CHURCHES. 

East Somerville Baptist. — Fir.st Baptist. — Randall Memorial Free-Will Baptist. 
— Perkins Street Baptist. — Union Square Baptist. — Winter Hill Baitist. — 
Broadway' Congregational. — Day Stkeet Congregational. — First Congrega- 
tional (Unitarian). • — First Orthodox Congregational. — Highland Congrega- 
tional. — ■ Prospect Hill Congregational. — Wini'er Hill Congrf:gational. — St. 
Ann's (Catholic). — St. Catherine's (Cathoiic). — Emmanuel Episcopal. — St. 
Thomas Episcopal. — .St. James Episcopal. — First Methodist-Episcopal. — Park 
Ayenue Methodist-Episcopal. — Union Square Prisbyterian. — First Uniyer- 
sallst. — Third Uniyersalist. — Winter Hill Universalist. — Eyangelical 
Association Church. 



( llAl'IKK .\.\l\ ......... 3^:, 

C'llARriAlU.i: AND SOCIAI, ORGANlZA'l'IONS. 

SuMF.RV ll.I.I lliKlllAl.. — IIdMHAI. LaIHIs' Aid AsStiCIATIuN. — SoNtl.KVII.l.E Asstt- 

tiATi-.i> CiiAKiTiKs. — Samaritan Si)Cii:iy. — SoMiiRvii.i.i. Day Ni rsirv. — \Vii.i„\ri) 

C. KlN^l.lV I'OST 139, C;. A. K. — WlI.I.ARI) C". KlNSI.lY KKI.IEr COKI'S. — Woman'^ 
CllKlsriAN TlMl'KRANCK UmON. — KiKKM AN'S ReI.IKI- ASSOCIATION. — SdMKKVILI.K 

\\)i Ni; Men's Christian Association. — Masonic: So.mkrville Royal Arch 
CiiAiTER; Orient On N( II.; John Abisot Lodce; Soi.ey Louce. — Ohd 1"ello\vs: 
So.MERv HIE Encami'meni; WiNiER Hill. Kncvmi'MENt; Caleu Rand Lodc.e; 
< )asis J.opcE; Paul Revere Lopta;. — Reiuckah Lodces: Ivaloo LorK;E; Ramona 
Loi)i;e; Krminie Lodge. — Odd Ladies: (_'on.steli.ation Lodc.e; Longieli.ow 
I,od(;e. — Ancient ( )ki)Ek oe United Workmen : Somervili.e Lodge. — Knkihts ok 
Honor: Mr. Benedrt Lodge; Ca.meron Lod(;i;. — Knii;ii is of Pythias : Arcadia 
Lodi;e. — Royal Akcanu.m: Somerville Council; Elm Council. — So.mervu.lk 
LiGin Infantry. — Central Ci.uh. — Sons of >L\ine Club. — Daughters of 
Maine Ci.in. — Heitorean Ci.i it. — Hillside Cluh. — Wehcowit Club. — Winter 
Hill Cluis. — Convers.uton Ci.rii. — Someuvh-LE Literary Association.— Suf- 
fr.\ge Li:.\git:. — Society of St. Vincent de Paul. — Lhtle Sisters of the 
Pdor. — Friendly Helpers of the Poor. — Remlniscences of Somerville. — 
H(^>.ME Circle: Washington Council; Harmony Coincil; So.mf:rville Council; 
Loyal Okangi. Instituiion: Mt. Horei; Lodge. 

CHAPTER .\X\- . . . . . .446 

];.\.\KS Ol- SOMKRVII.l.i:. 

CHAPTER X.XVI ......... 45^ 

IN i)L'S'i'Rii-:s OF s().mi:r\ ii.Li:. 

North PACKiNt; and Pkomsion Co.mtany; 1'"rksii 1'ond Ice CoMrANV; The Si'R.\gue 
AND Hathaway Comi'Anv; Cnion (Jlass Company; Derhy Desk Co.mlany; Brick- 
m.vking; Middlesex Blkach, Dye and Print Works; Cari'EP Cleaning, etc. 

CHAPTER .X.WII . . . . . . . . .465 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

Boston and Maine Railroad. — Street Railways in Somerville. — The ".Som- 
erville Jol'KNAI.."' — llli; •' So.MKK\ Il.I.K ClTIZEN.'" WESIWOODRoAD AND II S 

Residences. 
CHAI'TER XXNIll ......... 484 

i!i()(;R.\i'inEs. 




New Day Street Congregational Church. 




u 



X 



Ti 




Charles D. Elliot. 



SOMERVILLE'S HISTORY, 

i;v (1IAK1.es 1). ELLIOT. 



CHAPTER I. 



Origin asv Skttlemkni-. — Gk.\nts, Etc. — Dekd i-kom \Vei;-Co\vet and S(jrA\v- 
Sache.m. — Early Toi'ockai'HY. — Eikst Settlers. — Goveknok Winthkol's Ten 
Hills P^arm. 

SoMERVii.i.K was formerly a part of Charlestown, that honored ancestor 
of the towns of the Mystic valley, — and whose bounds originally ran 
"eight miles into the country from their meeting house," and included 
Woburn, Stoneham, Winchester, Burlington, a part of Arlington and Med- 
ford, Somerville, Maiden, Everett and the Bunker Hill peninsula, and whose 
early history is the heritage of each. 

New towns one after another were broken off from the old, the last 
being Somerville in 1842, and in this account the name Somerville is used 
in narrating the events which have occurred within its limits, since its first 
settlement. 

The title of the white man, whether Spanish, French, Dutch, or Eng- 
lish, to the home of the Indian, rested usually in a royal grant; "by turf 
and by twig," and in the name of their king and religion they took posses- 
sion, seldom consulting the aboriginal owner. 

The title to the territory of Somerville has this royal authority and 
more. First, in the grant of James I to the Plymouth Council of all lands 
between 40^ and 4S- N. latitude from sea to sea. 

Second, by grant of the Plymouth Council, March 19, 1628, to the 
Massachusetts Bay Company. 

Third, by royal charter, March 4, 1629, to the Massachusetts Bay Com- 
pany, which confirmed the grant of 1628; and fourth, a title not every 
colony can claim, a deed from an Indian sovereign, " Squa-Sachem." 

Other grants covered the territory and caused much trouble. 

The Plymouth people had already, in 1622, granted ten miles along the 
shore and thirty miles inland, to Robert Gorges ; he dying, his brother John, 
in 1624, leased to John Oldham and John Dorrill all land between the 
Charles and Saugus Rivers, for five miles up the Charles, and three up the 
Saugus. And again John (iorges, in 1628, deeded to Sir William Brereton 
all the land between Charles River and Nahant, for twenty miles inland. 

'7 



1 8 SOMERMLIJ:. PAST ./.\7> I'RISEXT. 

IJut little came of these later i^rants, unless possibly Blackstone, the first 
settler of Boston, and Thomas Walford, the first settler of ( harlestown (on 
the peninsula), claimed under them. 

These conriicting grants caused the I>.iy Company to strengthen their 
claim by actual occupation, and they accordingly sent settlers to several 
localities within the disputed territory, C'harlestown being one. 

Among the instructions from the Company, written from I'.ngland in 
i62(>, to Mr. Kndicott, is the following: — 

" If any of the Salvages pretend right of inheritance to all or any part 
of the lands granted in our patent, we pray you to endeavour to purchase 
their title, that we may avoid the least scruple of intrusion." L'nder these 
instructions several deeds from the Indians were secured, the one covering 
Somerville land being from Squa-Sacheni. who on the recent death of her 
husband became chief of her tribe. 

The deed begins as follows: — 
' ••The 15th of the 2d Mo. 1639. 

-Wee, Web-Cowet, and Squaw Sachem do sell vnto the Inhabitants of 
the Towne of C'harlestown all the land within the lines granted them by 
the court," and closes with "wee acknowledge to have received in full sat- 
isfaction, twenty and one coates. ninten fathoms of wampum, and three 
bushels of corne." 

" In witness whereof we have here vnto sett our hands the day and 
yeare above named." 

KaRI.V DksCRIPTIOXS and 'rol'iXIKAl'HV. 

Descriptions of this part of the country sent to England by the early 
comers, often read like advertisements of modern Eldorados. They were 
generally directed to intending settlers, and usually with the desired effect : 
after reading they emigrated ; for health and plenty stood on the shore, and 
with open arms welcomed each new arrival. The sea, the rivers, the woods, 
and the fields were great natural store-houses, stocked abundantly with fish 
and fowl, furs and fuel, fruits and riowers ; the air and water were the 
purest; "New England's air was better than old England's ale," and as 
one writer said, "We are all freeholders, the rent day doth not trouble us." 

If all that was written were true, this must have been a paradise to the 
sportsman, farmer, and lover of nature. 

\'et there was much that was true in their high-colored, curious de- 
scriptions. 

Mr. Graves, the earliest civil engineer in C'harlestown. writing in ir>2i; 
or 1 630, thus describes the topography of this section : " it is very beautiful 
in open lands, mixed with goodly woods, and again open plains, in some 
places five hundred acres, some places more, some less, not much trouble- 
some for to clear for the plough to go in : no place barren but on the tops 
of the hills. The grass and weeds grow up to a man's face in the lowlands, 
and by fresh rivers abundance of grass and large meadows, without any 
tree or shrub to hinder the scythe." 




Thomas Cunningham. 




Asa DuRGiN. 



SOMEJUILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 21 

The peninsulas of Charlestown and Boston, when settled, were much 
alike in shape. From the mainlands on either side they reached out toward 
each other and shut in the great basin cf Back Bay. They were attached 
to the mainland by low, narrow necks, which being overflowed, made each 
an island at highest tides. 

From Charlestown neck, the marshes extended to the shores of Miller's 
and Mystic Rivers, and from the foot of Prospect Hill round to the foot of 
Convent and Winter Hills ; Asylum Hill was a peninsula at high tide. 

Several creeks and brooks now mostly extinct, meandered from the 
higher land, across these marshes to the adjacent rivers. Chief of these 
was Miller's, iirst known as Gibones' River from Captain Edward Gibones 
who lived on its shores, probably near Cobble Hill. A later name for this 
was Willis' Creek, or Wills' Creek : and one French translation makes it 
" Crique de Mils." It was probably called Miller's River, and Cobble Hill, 
Miller's Hill after Thomas Miller, who owned land in that locality. 

This rivulet had its source in old Cambridge, South of Kirkland Street ; 
thence in earlier days it flowed, a pellucid stream through sandy upland, 
and sedgy meadow, to its mouth near the Charles. 

A branch of Miller's River began its course not far from the Old Folks' 
Home on Highland Avenue, crossing Central Street near Cambria, and 
School Street near Summer, joining the main stream not far from ITnion 
Square. 

East of Miller's River, and flowing into the same great Charles River or 
Back Bay basin, was Crasswell Brook, named after one of the early owners ; 
its outlet still exists, and forms part of the city boundary; a ditch through 
the McLean Asylum grounds marks approximately a part of its old course. 
Washington Street bridged it, and its source was probably not far from the 
junction of C'ross and Oliver Streets. Passing over "the Neck" we come 
to Mystic River, into which five streams poured their constant tribute. The 
first, opposite Convent Hill, was perhaps never named, and was possibly of 
no great length or importance. The next was probably the " W'inthrop 
Creek " of the old records, named for the Governor and more recently known 
as Bachellor's Creek. It marked the easterly boundary of the grant of Ten 
Hills Farm to him. Its source was not far from Oilman Square ; it wound 
its way easterly, crossing Broadway near Walnut Street, and thence across 
the Park and through the marshes to the river; all west of Middlesex 
Avenue is now filled. Following up the shore to where the new lYotting 
Park now is. we come to Winter Brook ; like the hill, called so, no man now 
knows why ; its source was in Polly Swamp, not far from the junction of 
Lowell and Albion Streets ; thence it flowed northeasterly, crossing Broad- 
way near the railroad bridge, and Medford Street (in Medford) just north- 
west of its junction with Main Street, probably where the present water- 
course, its successor, is bridged. 

Further on was Two-Penny Brook ; I might have said is, if a sedgy 
ditch cut to straight lines, can be called a brook ; it rose near the old school 
on Broadway, opposite the Simpson estate, flowing through the College and 



22 SO.\H.K\ JLIJ:. I'AST AXD I'RFSl'.XT. 

Robinson estates, under the Lowell Railroad, along the easterly border of 
the brickyards, to the river; forks of each of these brooks started near the 
foot of Powder House Hill. I'he fifth stream was Alewife Hrook, our 
western boundary, then called by its Indian name, " Menotomy " River. 
This name has man\ spellin.L;s in ye ancient record, one or two of which 
commenced with a " W." it has also been known as "Little" River. 
This is the outlet of Fresh I'ond, and there is much of interest connected 
with it. Into Alewife Brook ran another, from near Davis .Sciuare. westerly 
into Cambridge, entering Alewife I5rook near the former tanneries on North 
Avenue, whence in later times it has been called Tannery Hrook ; the 
Somerville part of it is now a covered drain. 

The hills of those old days are fast disappearing as well as the rivers, 
both in name and substance. Within a year or two the " high fielde '' of 
the original settlers, the "ploughed hill " of the Revolution, better known in 
our day as " Nunnery "' or " ( "onvent Hill "' or " Mount l>enedict."' will be a 
memory only. Asylum Hill, which was the Miller's Hill, or Cobble Hill of 
a hundred years or more ago, has the seal of destruction set upon it. The 
historic heights of Prospect Hill, the Mount I'isgah of the Revolution, have 
long since gone to bury the less historic shores of Miller's River. 

Winthrop Hill, on the Ten Hills Farm, and the other eminences near it. 
are but scarred relics of their former picturesque beauty. \\'inter Hill, 
strange to say, so far as is known, has suffered no change since " long ago." 
either in height, contour or name ; like Winter Hrook, the origin of its name 
is in obscurity ; whether named for a person, or a season, is an enigma. 

Walnut Tree Hill, now College Hill, has probably seen little change in 
shape since the Indian roamed over it. Wild Cat Hill, on the borders of 
Alewife P>rook, from the remotest day until recently, has remained to thrill 
the mind with the possible cause for its name ; but now it is degraded to a 
city gravel-bank, and will soon be gone. 

Quarry Hill, smooth and polished, with little left of its antique charm, 
yet remains crowned by its old tower, which, though architecturally modern- 
ized with cut stone archway and window, is still a historic inspiration. 

Strawberry Hill, where is and where was it ? Possibly and probably, if 
old records are correct, in which there is but one mention of it, east of 
lieacon .Street and north of Washington Street, a part of it still remaining 
on the Norton's Grove estate in Cambridge. Spring Hill in name is recent, 
probably, and in shape much as of yore, as is Central Hill, which on some 
old Revolutionary maps is styled "Middle Hill." 

In the foregoing, the endeavor has been made to retrace the natural 
features of the town, and the old naming with which the earlier residents 
were familiar, as well as that of more recent times. 

First SErn.KRs. 

Probably the first white men who wandered over Somerville soil were 
Standish and his exploring party from Plymouth in 1621. 

Seven years later came a party of settlers from Salem, prospecting for 




John F. Nickerson. 









V 




Cromwell G. Rowell. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 25 

a place to locate in. These were "Ralph Sprague with his bretheren 
Richard and William, who with three or four more" . . . "did in the sum- 
mer of anno 1628, undertake a journey from Salem, and travelled the woods 
above twelve miles to the westward, and lighted of a place situated and 
lying on the north side of Charles river, full of Indians called Aberginians," 
..." and upon surveying, they found it was a neck of land, generally full 
of stately timber, as was the main, and the land lying on the east side of 
the river, called Mystick river." Here on the peninsula they settled and 
built, and others came soon after. In 1629, "it was jointly agreed and 
concluded, that this place on the north side of Charles river, by the natives 
called Mishawum, shall henceforth, from the name of the river, be called 
Charlestown " ; and in this connection it may be of interest to recall that 
the river was named by Captain John Smith, in 1614, after H. R. H. 
Charles, Prince of Wales, afterwards Charles i, who, Smith says, "did 
change the barbarous names of their principall Harbours and habitations, 
for such English, that posterity may say King Charles was their Godfather." 
Among the first of the Charlestown settlers to locate on Somerville territory 
were John Woolrich, Captain Norton, Edward Gibones, Mr. William Jen- 
nings and John Wignall ; followed a little later by Richard Palsgrave, 
Edward Jones and others, and by the Governor, John Winthrop, in 1631. 

It may be proper here to give a sketch of these pioneers of our town. 

John Woolrich or Wolrich was an Indian trader; he "built and fenced 
a mile and a half without ye necke of land in ye maine, on ye right hand of 
ye way to Newe Towne,"' which would be somewhere on the northerly side 
of \\'ashington Street, beyond the Fitchburg Railroad bridge ; perhaps 
not far from Dane Street. He was prominent in affairs, and was a repre- 
sentative to the General Court in 1634. 

Of Captain Norton, accounts are somewhat conflicting : in one reference 
he is called John, in another Francis ; one record is that he was killed by the 
Indians in 1633, another makes him join the church in 1642, marry in 1649, 
and die in 1667. There may have been two Captain Nortons. 

Major-General Edward (ribones, the most distinguished of our early 
citizens, excepting Governor Winthrop, was a young man recently converted 
and admitted to the church ; he ultimately rose to the rank of Major-Gen- 
eral in the militia, being "a man of resolute spirit" and "bold as a lion." 
He represented Charlestown in the General Court, in 1635 and 1636, and 
died in 1654. 

Of William Jennings and John Wignall but little is recorded. 

Richard Palsgrave was the first physician of Charlestown, living in the 
town several years, and died about 1656. 

Edward Jones was an inhabitant in 1630, and removed to Long Island 
in 1644. 

Palsgrave and Jones each built three-quarters of a mile beyond the 
neck, on the northerly side of Washington Street, "right before the marsh," 
probably opposite the Asylum grounds. 

John Winthrop, the first Governor of the Massachusetts company that 



SOMERlILI.i:. PAST .LVD I'RESEXT. 

came over here (("raddock never came), was .s^ranted tlie Ten Hills Farm 
of six hundred acres in 1631 ; it extended from the C'raddock liridge, near 
Medford Centre, along the Mystic River to near Convent Hill, and em- 
braced all the land between Hroadway, Medford Street and the River, 
ihis was the (Governor's farm where he built, lived, planted, raised cattle, 
and launched the first ship in Massachusetts, the " Blessing of the P.ay, " 
July 4. 1^)31. Governor Winthrop was the ancestor of the late Hon. 
Robert C. Winthrop. He was a man of liberal education and sterling 
worth, a devout Christian and an honor to the Colony: he died in i')4i^. 



chaiti:r II. 

Frdm Seti i.KMKN r 10 Tin-: Rkvolutiox. 
Early Evknis. — Pastukinc and Hi:kiiin(;. — CiiARAriKKisrus ok Early Immic.rants. — 

MacHIM.RY (•!•■ rRIMMIVK I.NDUSIRIES SKI IN MiHION. — ESTABLISHMENT < >F ToWN 
("lOVKRN.MKNT or CUARLESTUWN. — MlNKII'AL RK.C.ULATIONS. — PeRS( )N.^i: NUN GrAT.I;. 

— First IIkiunyays. — Thk Stinted Common. — Churches and Schools. — Peti- 
tion OK EzEKiEi. Chkevek. — The First Town School. — Mii.iiary ( )rganiz.\tions 

AND F'oRTIEUAIToNS. KlNC PHII.Ii's WaR. — TnIHAN Al.I.lKS. 

Chari.es lowx's settlers in 1629 were in all ten families, not including 
Thomas Walford and wife, whom they found already there living in "his 
pallisadoed and thatched house," and not including servants of the I5ay 
Company. 

Their first winter was full of discouragement : provisions were gone 
and disease so prevalent that "almost in every family lamentation, mourn- 
ing and woe were heard "" : " many perished and died." Added to this, the 
water became bad and brackish, and Indians threatening; many left 
Charlestown and removed to Boston, where the water was better. The 
arrival of Capt. I'earce with a shipload of provisions, however, inspirited 
them anew, and was hailed with rejoicing and thanksgiving. 

The first inhabitants built around Town Hill, now Bow Street, near 
Charlestown City Square. They were allotted grounds for planting on 
other parts of the peninsula, which they were required to fence : but the 
grazing ground for their cattle was here in Somerville, or " without the 
neck," and Somerville was in those early times known as the " Cow Com- 
mons," and later, as the " Stinted Pasture." The rights of pasturage were 
apportioned among the citizens in 1656, and perhaps before. 

A herdsman, as early as 1632, was appointed to " Keepe the Milch 
Cattle of this Towne, in a herd without the necke of land upon ye maine 
till the end of Harvest, and hee is to drive them forth every morning and 
bring them into Towne every evening." The herdsman sounded his horn 
from Town Hill each morning, to call the cattle together, in readiness for 




ALVANO T. NICKERSON. 




Samuel W. Holt. 



SOMERllLLE, FAST AND PRESKXT. 29 

pasture. In 1633, the salary for this official was ''fifty bushels of Indian 
corne." 

A fence with a gate was early ordered and built across the Neck, from 
Mystic River to Charles River basin, to keep these cattle, and perhaps wild 
beasts, from straying into the town ; for wolves were common then, and 
bounties given for their destruction. 

In the course of time, about the whole of Somerville was enclosed with 
fencing; fencing or "paling," as it was called, extending all along the Cam- 
bridge line, and between the common pasture and the Ten Hills Farm, with 
gates at the highways. 

In speaking of highways it is but natural again to recall the first engi- 
neer in these parts, Mr. Thomas (Graves, who came in 1629, and who, it is 
supposed, laid out all earlier streets, and other works of improvement in 
Charlestown. It is claimed that he was the (afterwards) noted Admiral 
Thomas Graves of the English Navy. 

It is quite fair to presume that he traced the routes for our infant 
thoroughfares, Washington Street and Broadway. 

Those early emigrants were a sturdy, tireless race ; their energy knew 
no obstacle. Roads were laid out, watering places located, landings built, 
bridges thrown over streams, and, where too wide for bridges, ferries estab- 
lished. 

Those to Boston and to Maiden (the latter called " Two penny ferry ") 
remained until after the Revolution, the only direct means of communication 
between those places. 

All kinds of business and trades were soon started, mills built, one 
at Charlestown Neck opposite Miller's River as early as 1645, lime kilns set 
up, fish-weirs established, ledges opened, and all the primitive machinery 
of industry set in motion. 

Among the various trades and callings found here in Charlestown be- 
tween 1630 and 1650 were the following : cutting of posts, clapboards and 
shingles ; raising of horses for export ; farming ; fishing of various kinds, 
especially for alewives, oysters, and lobsters, which were abundant in these 
waters — lobsters of twenty-five pounds weight being mentioned: rope and 
anchor making ; coopering ; tile making ; brewing ; salt manufacturing ; car- 
pentering ; ship building; wheelwright work; pottery; charcoal burning; 
and various kinds of mill work, there being in 1645 in Charlestown wind, 
stream, and tide mills. 

A town government was very early organized, and local laws enacted, 
controlling church, school, and military matters, as well as civil and crim- 
inal. The town officers were the " Seven men " or Selectmen, Constables, 
Highway Surveyors. Town Clerk, Herdsman, Overseers of the fields, and 
Chimney Sweepers, and later on. Town Treasurer, Town Messenger, In- 
spector of youth, Tythingmen, Surveyors of damnified goods. Clerks of the 
market. Packer of fish and flesh, Corder of wood. Culler of staves. Sealers 
of hides and leather, Measurers of lumber, Cullers of fish, and Measurers 
of salt and coal. 



30 somi:r\illi:, past axd PRESExr. 

The freemen of the town could vote for Governor and Deputy, and for 
Major-Cieneral, Representatives, (irand Jury, and also for Assistants or 
Magistrates ; in electing the latter, corn and beans were used, corn for 
•• yes." beans for '■ no." The penalty for fraud in voting was ^Tio. 

Among the wholesome regulations were those guarding against tires : 
they required every house to be provided with ladders, and to be statedly 
inspected, and every chimney to be swept once a month in winter, and once 
every two months in summer. A blazing chimney brought a fine on the 
tenant. 

All children must be educated and " catechised." for neglect of which 
their parents answered in court. 

-Sabbath-breakers, tipplers, and gamblers were sharply watched, and 
severely punished. One woman, for instance, was heavily tined for washing 
clothes on .Sunday. 

Strangers in town were "personae non gratae," and had speedily to 
account for themselves. A committee was appointed to '' marke such trees 
for shade by the Highwa[ies] and watering places as in theire discretion 
shall bee thought mete : " fine for cutting these, live shillings, and a special 
order was also made that no tree " under any pretence whatsoever " should 
be cut outside the Xeck without the knowledge of the Selectmen. 

As already stated, several of the settlers had, as early as 1629 or 1630, 
located, built, and planted, here in Somerville, and in the year 1633 the 
town gave liberty to any of its inhabitants to build outside the Xeck. pro- 
vided, etc., that it " bee not a shortening of the privileges of the Towne," and 
in 1634 ten persons were granted ''planting ground" on the "South side 
of New Towne highway," forty-one acres in all. From this time on, settle- 
ments on Somerville land increased, and the records show many transfers 
of property in this part of Charlestown. 

1 I KiHWAVS. 

The first road in Somerville was Washington Street, from the Xeck to 
Cambridge, described in 1630 as the "Way to Xew Towne " (Cambridge), 
and in one place spoken of as narrow and crooked. The ne.xt was probably 
the easterly part of Broadway, called " the way to Mystick," connecting, 
perhaps, as early as 1637. by trail, or bye road around or over the Ten Hills 
Farm, with the ford and bridge then built at Medford Centre over the 
Mystic River. It was probably many years afterwards that Broadway was 
extended over Winter Flill to .Menotomy (now Arlington 1. 

The Stinted Common was apportioned in 1656 among the citizens of the 
town, and remained a cow pasture until iTiSi and 16S5, when it was cut into 
strips one-fourth of a mile wide, with numbered rangeways between them, 
and granted in stated lots to the inhabitants entitled to them. 

The territory thus laid out extended from Washington Street, Bow 
Street and Somerville Avenue, to Broadway, and from the present Charles- 
town line to Elm Street. The first Rangeway is now Franklin Street : the 
second, Cross Street; third, Walnut; fourth, School; fifth. Central: sixth, 




Marshall H. Locke. 




Franklin n. Poor. 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 33 

Lowell ; seventh, Cedar ; and eighth, Willow Avenue. There were three 
others, running from Broadway beyond Elm Street, into Medford. The first 
has been entirely obliterated ; the second is now Curtis Street, and the 
third, North Street. 

Churches and Schools. 

Until 1632 the good people of Charlestown sought religious consolation 
in the church at Boston, but in this year they separated and organized the 
" First Church of Charlestown " ; their early meetings were held " under the 
shade of a great oak,'' celebrated as the " Charlestown oak" ; it stood in or 
not far from the square ; they soon purchased the "great house," no longer 
used by the town, and fitted it up for a meeting house. People from the 
remote parts of the town, as well as from Somerville, attended this church, 
among the number, our earliest settlers, Woolrich and Jones, who are on 
its membership roll. The services lasted all day, beginning at nine o'clock 
or before; and for the benefit of those living at a distance, the town built 
small houses with chimneys, called " Sabbaday houses," as the record says, 
"' of a convenient largeness to give entertainment on the Lord's day to such 
as live remote," etc. In November, 1S82, the two hundred and fiftieth an- 
niversary of this church was celebrated. 

It is probable that, in earlier days, all the young people of these parts 
received their first teaching in the schools of the peninsula, going and re- 
turning over the Neck, a long and tedious walk in winter; all the branches 
were taught, from a, b, c's to Latin grammar. There seems to have been 
some rivalry then, among the educators of the town, which is generously 
hinted at in the petition of Ezekiel Cheever, schoolmaster of the town 
school, in 1666, to the Selectmen; he had evidently been promised that no 
other schoolmaster should set up in the town, but says that " now Mr. 
Mansfield is suffered to teach and take away his scholars." The town 
schoolhouse of that day can well be pictured from the records, which speak 
of it (1686) as twelve feet square, and eight feet high, with flatfish roof, 
turret for bell, and "mantle-tree " twelve feet long; ceiled with brick and 
clay, and built at a cost of $90.00. Yet in it ancient and modern lore were 
for years successfully dispensed. 

MlLirARV. 

The military prowess of the pioneers stands out boldly in their history; 
they were men of intelligence, education and piety, and the defense of 
home, religion and rights was first in their thoughts. They at once began 
their military organizations and their fortifications, protections against 
foreign foes as well as Indians. The "Castle" in the harbor, the Fort on 
" Town Hill " and the " Half moon " at the Neck, all gave a greater feeling 
of security to people on the peninsula. Companies were organized, offi- 
cered, and drilled, and in the various struggles with the savage and the 
Frenchman, Charlestown soldiers bore well their part. Among them and 
pre-eminently prominent was a resident of Somerville, Major-General 
Edward Gibones. 



34 somi:r\/i.[.i:. past .\xn presext. 

King Philip's war in particular caused much suffering and alarm among 
the inhabitants ; it became necessary to impress men for the service. As a 
protection from Indian attack in 1676, it was proposed, but afterwards 
abandoned, to build a stockade across the country from Charles River to 
the Merrimac. A company of praying Indians was also organized here in 
(harlestown for this war. and did good service. 

It would be pleasant to trace the part Somerville settlers bore in these 
various conflicts if there were space and the records complete, which they 
are not. 

CHAPTER Hi. 

.\dvent iif .\m>riis .\m) Consequencks to thk Colonists. — Trn.Ks to Estatics 
Imperiled. — Ten Hills Farm and its Owners. — A I-avorite Home for 
Go\ERNORs. — "The Blessinc oe the Bay" Built and Launched. — Caitain 
Rohkrt Te.mi"le. — Si.we Holders in Somerville. — The First I'rivatf.kr in 
Amerka. — Colonel Svmif.i lA<,)tF.s. — The Old Powder Hoi sk. — Jean Mallet. 
— A Traimc Lf.<;fni). 

In i6,S6 the happiness of the people was rudely shattered by a royal 
edict, appointing Sir Kdmund Andros " Capt. Generall and Govr. in 
Chief"' over New E.ngland : it gave him royal powers to choose Coun- 
cillors, make laws, and assess taxes: it constituted Andros and Councillors 
a court of justice for trial of all cases, civil, criminal, and of property rights, 
as well as petty cases ; also unlimited authority over matters military and 
naval, thus annulling the charter of the Bay Company. A struggle ensued 
which, lasting three years, ended in the revolution of 16S9, the seizure 
and imprisonment of Andros and others, and capture of the Castle in P.oston 
Harbor; and in 1692, the restoration of their old rights to the colonists. 

One of the first acts of Andros was to declare all previous property 
titles valueless ; the charter had not been complied with, " and, therefore, 
all the lands of New England have returned to the King" : and further, it 
was declared that " wherever an Englishman sets his foot, all that he hath 
is the King's." Andros angrily asserted that "there was no such a thing 
as a town in the country," and that the ancient town records of titles were 
"not worth a rush.'' In Somerville, by this action, many estates were 
imperiled; one or two of these had been in the same family half a century. 

Some of the owners submitted to these cruel exactions, while others 
rebelled. The greatest of these outrages was the granting of the Stinted 
Pasture to Lieutenant Colonel Charles Lidgett, a follower of Andros, and 
already one of the owners of Ten Hills Earm : of which, however, he also 
received Andros' title of confirmation. Lidgett immediately began the 
prosecution of the rightful owners of the pasture, for cutting wood and for 
other alleged trespasses. They were caused much annoyance and distress; 
and in some cases were fined and imprisoned. 

But Lidgett's chickens Hew home to repose : in 16.S9, with Andros and 
others, he was seized and thrown into prison, with which just retribution 
ended the fraudulent title speculation. 





^ 




<«^>- v.>< 


i W , ■':. 


^', 




^ 


^??^^^^^^^^HHr . 



Amos Keyes. 









fi 


1^'^' 




^^^L%tM/^ 


i 


^^^^^^^^^^^^^f^S 


«=*» 



Seward Dodge. 



SOMEIUILLE, PAST .LVD PRESENT. 37 

Tkn Hills Farm. 

It is especially notable that this old estate, called Ten Hills after the ten 
knolls on it, should have kept for two hundred and sixty-five years the name 
given it by its first owner; thou,<;h that name at present applies to only one 
hundred acres or so of the original grant. 

This property is one of the few in the city whose title can be clearly 
traced in the records, through each conveyance, from aboriginal and royal 
grants to the present time. 

Besides being included in the deed from Squa-Sachem, already quoted, 
it is. of course, within the limits of the royal grant to Plymouth Colony in 
1620, and in the Plymouth grant and Royal Confirmation to the Massa- 
chusetts Bay Company in 162S and 1629. 

By the Massachusetts Bay Company's Governor and Council it was 
granted direct to John Winthrop. 

The record reads : — 

"6 Sept., 1631 — Granted to Mr. Governor, six hundred acres of land, 
to be set forth by metes and bounds, near his house at Mistick, to enjoy to 
him and his heirs forever.'" 

The claim of the Andros government, that none of the settlers held any 
title whatever to their lands, did not hold good regarding this estate. It 
was the onh' one in this city, however, that was granted b\- the Bay Com- 
pany. 

( )n the death of the Governor, in i()4i;, the propertx' fell to his son l<>hn, 
Jr., Governor of Connecticut, by whose executors it was deeded, in 1677, to 
Elizabeth Lidgett, widow of Peter Lidgett, a merchant of Boston. She 
deeded one-half of it to her son ( 'harles, the same year. The Lidgetts and 
their heirs, among them the wife and children of Lieutenant-Governor 
I'sher of New Hampshire, deeded a portion of it, in 1731, to Sir Isaac 
Royal, the most of which is in Medford, five hundred and four acres. 

The remainder, or Somerville portion, two hundred and fifty-one acres, 
they sold to Captain Robert Temple, in 1740 ; on his death, it fell to his son 
Robert, Jr.. the '' Royalist," who retained it until after the Re\olution, selling, 
in 17.S0. to Nathaniel Tracy of Newburyport, and he, in 17S5, to Honora- 
ble Thomas Russell, who again sold it, in 1791, to Captain George Lane. 
Later it was owned by Theodore Lyman : and then by Elias Hasket Derby 
of Salem: afterwards it became the property of Colonel Samuel Jaques, 
then of Samuel ( )akman, and finally of the present owners, the heirs of 
Fred Ames and Y. (). Reed and others. 

It is noticeable that Ten Hills, if not continuously a gubernatorial 
demesne, has in all times been held in some favor by governors and their 
relatives and associates : first, Winthrop, (Tovernor of Massachusetts : then 
his son, Governor of Connecticut ; then the wife of Lieutenant-Governor 
Usher ; then by Robert Temple, son of the Governor of Nova Scotia ; then 
by Robert, Jr., whose wife was the daughter of Governor Shirley; then by 
Royal and Russell, each a governor's councillor; and now by the heirs of 
the brother of Governor Ames. 



38 so.\n:Riii.Li:, past .ixn i'resext. 

There is imich of interest akin to romiince in the annals of this old 
property : and in the lives and d(iin<js of its various owners. 

Its first proprietor settled on it when it was in all its original wildness, 
built his house and barns, planted his gardens and orchards, raised his 
cattle, and hunted and fished through its woods and along its shores. In 
the record he kept, he gives one picture of his life here, under date of 
October ii, K131 : '"The Governor being at his farmhouse in Mistick. 
walked out after supper and took a piece in his hand, supposing he might 
see a wolf (for they came daily about the house and killed swine and calves, 
etc.) and, being about half a mile off, it grew suddenly dark, so as in coming 
home he mistook his path, and went till he came to a little house of Saga- 
more John, which stood empty. There he stayed, and having a piece of 
match in his pocket (for he always carried about him match and compass 
and in the summertime snake weed), he made a good fire near the house, 
and lay down upon some old mats, which he found there, and so spent the 
night, sometimes walking by the fire, sometimes singing psalms and some- 
times getting wood, but could not sleep. It was (through (lod's mercyi a 
warm night; but a little before day it began to rain, and having no cloak, 
he made shift by a long pole to climb up into the house. '" In the morning" 
... "he returned safe home, his servants having walked about, and shot off 
pieces, and halloed in the night, but he heard them not." 

It was here, at Ten Hills, that he built and launched the first ship built 
in this Colony, which records mention as follows: "July 4, [1631J. The 
Governor built a bark at Mistick, which was launched this day, and called 
' The P.lessingof the 15ay.' " 

In November, !C)3i, his wife with some of their children arrived from 
England in the ship Lyon; the event caused great rejoicing. "The ship 
gave them six or seven pieces," "the captains with their companies in arms 
entertained them with a guard and divers volleys of shot, and three drakes '" 
(cannon) : people from the near plantations welcomed them and brought in 
great store of provisions, " fat hogs, kids, venison, poultry, geese, part- 
ridges " and other contributions. '"The like joy and manifestations of love 
had never been seen in New England."' 

.Meanwhile the Governor had established himself in lioston, probably 
his winter home at first, but afterwards his permanent abode ; this was on 
Washington Street between Spring Lane and Milk Street, his house, which 
was framed in Charlestown, being at the corner of Spring Lane. The ( )ld 
South Church occupies his front yard, or "green." 

Colonel Charles Lidgett has already been noticed in the account of the 
Andros trouble. 

Captain Robert Temple was the son of Thomas Temple, once Governor 
of Nova Scotia. Robert Temple, Jr., the " Royalist," as he has been called, 
was brother of Sir John, first Consul-General from England to the I'nited 
States, and uncle of Sir Grenville Temple, both baronets in England : Sir 
John married the daughter of CJovernor liowdoin : and Robert. Jr., the 
daughter of Governor Shirley. Thus connected with Royalists and perhaps. 



70 
o 



o 



%) 



m 



o 

CD 





'Xi 



■X. 

g 



SOMIiRl'/LLK, PAST .LVD PRESENT. 4 1 

very naturally, not showing" intense enthusiasm in the patriot cause, Temple 
was looked on as a tory, and when, in May, 1775, he started on a journey to 
England, he was seized by the Committee of Safety of C'ohasset, and sent to 
Boston, where, after inspecting his letters and questioning him personally, 
it was recommended that he be treated as '"a friend to the interests of this 
country, and the rights of all America." 

The Temples were slave-holders, though probably not the only ones in 
Somerville. 

It was during the occupancy by Temple that the British landed at his 
wharf on their raid to the Powder House and Cambridge. 

Nathaniel Tracy, the next owner, was said to be "generous and patri- 
otic.'" He fitted out the first privateer in America during the Revolution, and 
his firm did a large business in that line, losing many, }'et reaping, finally, 
a rich harvest. 

Thomas Russell, who bought of Tracy, was a '' merchant prince," a rep- 
resentative to the General Assembly, and an executive councillor. He sold 
to George Lane, a sea captain. 

Elias Hasket Derby, merchant, of Salem, who owned the place and 
lived here for some time, was a man of note ; he was wealthy and enter- 
tained sumptuously. His son died here in iSoi. 

Colonel Samuel Jaques, who made the "Ten Hills" famous in the ear- 
lier days of this century, had his title from a long service in the militia and 
in the war of i,Si2. His farm was stocked with horses, cattle, sheep and 
deer ; he had his pack of hounds, and that he was the famed Nimrod of these 
parts, many a wily fox could testify. 

The destruction of the mansion and slave-quarters in 1X77, and digging 
down of Winthrop Hill, is too recent to require further mention. It is now 
a dismal wreck, let it be ho^Ded that the construction of the elaborate park- 
way proposed across it, and a more liberal policy in the improvement of its 
surroundings, will restore the locality at no distant day to something of its 
former importance and beauty. 

()ld Powder House. 

Where a long-abandoned ledge 

pjreaks the brow of a grass-grown hill, 

Near its crumbled and mossy edge 
Stands the old deserted mill. 

Like a sentinel keeping watch and ward over neighboring fields and 
highways, the old round tower on the ancient quarry's brink has stood for 
nearly two centuries. Around it cluster obscurity, legend and history, those 
charms of antiquity, and they have hung over it a mantle so attractive as to 
render it one of the most interesting of relics. It stands on (Quarry Hill, 
called also in the quaint nomenclature of old, "Two penny brooke quarry," 
which winding meadow stream it overlooked. 

The knoll, with its adjacent lands, was at the extreme of the Stinted 



42 so.\[i:r\'illi:. past axd i'ri'.sext. 

Pasture, at the division of which in i(^>S5 it was allotted to Sergeant Richard 
Lowden, some nine or ten acres in all, long before which it had been worked 
as a quarry. After Richard's death, his son and executor sold the estate to 
Jonathan I'oskett, and Foskett, in February, 1703-4, to "jean Mallet," a 
shipwright, afterwards a miller, and who very likely built the curious old 
mill, though no record tells us so. Jean Mallett was a Huguenot, and 
probably came from France with many others, to these more congenial 
shores, shortly after the revocation of the Fdict of Nantes, in 1AS5, settling 
unwisely, to say the least, in Worcester County, in what is now the town of 
( )xford, then a border wilderness, but which these Huguenots soon 
turned into blossoming fields and fruitful gardens ; here they lived in 
contentment and security for many years, but in 1696 the Indians descended 
on their settlement and a dreadful massacre ensued. The survivors aban- 
doned their plantations, and most of them came to Boston ; among these was 
Mallet, who. a while after, we find here in Somerville. Little more is known 
of him except that he died about 1720, leaving the old stone windmill to his 
son Michael, who in 1747 sold it to the State for a powder-magazine ; prob- 
ably long before this its millstones had ceased to grind, though undoubt- 
edly for many long years the old miller took his lawful toll of "one to 
sixteen " from the farmers for miles around. 

A tragic legend shrouds the old mill, told of a captive Acadian maiden 
who, disguised as a youth, flees from her cruel master and seeks refuge 
in the family of the old miller; his rooms are few and accommodations 
scanty: so the maid is given lodging in the old mill-loft, dusty and dismal. 
In the night comes her master; he has traced her here, and with smooth 
speech and specious story induces the miller to unlock the mill ; the master 
clambers clumsily up the ladder, reaches the loft and tries to seize his 
victim ; in the unfamiliar darkness he loses his foothold, plunges to the 
mill floor, clutching the rope as he falls. The great fans move, the mill- 
stone rolls hoarsely around, and soon all is over. The exile maiden is once 
more free. 

It is a curious, grewsome story; let us trust that it is only a legend. 




The Old Powder House. 





John C. Maguun. 



Chhsthr (iUll.D. 



Kt^ ^^ 





JOSHPH CLARK. 



CHARLES E. (3lLA\AN. 



SOMERl'ILLK. PAST AND PRESENT. 45 



chaiti-:r IV. 

The Revolui'ion. 

Friction Between the Colonies and Home Gmver>;meni-. — Preparations for the 
Great Struggle. — Seizure of Powdi-.r. — P'irsi- Hostile Demonstr.\tion of 
THE Revolution. — The Whole Country in Arms. — Kesign.vtion of Lieut.- 
CJovernor Thomas ( )li\er. — Ariutkary Measures of the British Government. 
— Secretion of Arms and tiisTRnunioN of .Military Suitlies kv the Colo- 
nists. — Hostile Steps iaken hv the British. — The Patriots Warned. — Paul 
Revere's Ride. — Batilf of Lexington. — Rijads in Somer\ille Traversed iiy 
British Tkoors. — Battle of Bunker Hill. — Vivid Scenes. 

The Boston Port Bill, enacted March 31, 1774, was the punishment 
inflicted on the Americans for the destruction of the East India Company's 
tea ; it prohibited all commerce, export or import, with Boston and Charles 
town, and brought disaster and distress upon both cities, the ferries even 
being included in the embargo. All business was suspended, and the 
sufferings of both rich and poor were great. Neighboring towns came to 
their relief with food and fuel ; committees were appointed to devise reme- 
dies, and arrangements made to cjuarter the most needy families upon other 
towns of the State. 

The friction between the colonies and the home government had grown 
steadily for ten years, and a frowning fleet and formidable army, sent to 
enforce various odious enactments, increased to the utmost the spirit of 
resistance. 

The Americans for a long time had been actively preparing for a 
struggle they believed imminent, and t|uietly collecting arms, accoutrements, 
ammunition and stores. 

In this way it occurred that the powder of several towns was stored in 
the powder house on Quarry Hill; fearing for its safety, in the summer of 
1774, some of the towns began removing it. This powder and also that 
belonging to the Province, as well as other military stores, were in the 
custody of Maj. Cien. William Brattle, of Cambridge, and to him General 
Gage wrote, in August, asking a return or schedule of "the diff'erent sorts 
of each." Brattle in his reply of August 29, speaking of powder, says that 
that in the arsenal at Quarry Hill, was "' the King's powder only." Medford 
had just taken the last belonging to any of the towns. 

On August 31, Sheriff Phipps called upon Brattle, with orders for the 
remaining powder and for two cannon at Cambridge: in compliance Brattle 



4'. SOMERlll.I.i:, I'.isr .LVD /'K/CSKXr. 

delivered up the key of the powder house, and ordered Mr. Mnson, who 
was in charge of the cannon, to deliver them also. 

On the next day. September i. 1774, occurred the first hostile demon- 
stration of the Revolution; by a miracle, almost, it ended without bloodshed. 
It is described in the news of the day as follows : — 

-On Thursday .Morning [Sept. 1 ], half after four, about 260 iVoops 
embarked on board 13 lioats at the Long Wharf, and proceeded up Mystic 
Kiver to Temple's Farm, where they landed, and went to the I'owder- 
House on Quarry Hill, in (harlestown Bounds, whence they took 212 Half 
r.arrels of Powder, the whole store there, and conveyed it to Castle 
William." . . . " A detachment from this corps went to Cambridge and 
brought off two held pieces, which had lately been sent there for Col. 
lirattle's regiment." 

Another account says that " 250 " half-barrels of powder were taken. 
These troops were under the command of Lt. Col. Madison, and in 
Boston it was believed that they had gone out to capture the Committee of 
Conference at Salem, who were promptly notified ; but when their actual 
destination was discovered, the alarm spread like wild-fire throughout the 
country, to the north, west and south, even to Pennsylvania. 

15efore night there was a general uprising of the militia of the State, 
and the ne.xt day, along the roads in all directions, were stiuads of men 
marching towards Cambridge, ready to repel the invaders. 

As was natural, the news of the raid was heightened by sensational 
accounts of fighting and bloodshed. Boston had been bombarded by the 
rieet, and .\mericans killed and wounded. 

It was estimated that fifty thousand ■' well armed " men had responded 
to this alarm : "the whole country was in arms " : they came not only from 
Middlesex and the adjacent counties, but from the western parts of the 
State, and even from Connecticut. 

They poured into Cambridge, and assembled by thousands on the 
Common. It was an orderly throng, but determined. The Crown officers 
were alarmed : Judge Danforth and Judge Lee addressed the assemblage, 
and both expressing regret at having accepted appointments under acts so 
obnoxious to their fellow citizens, then and there resigned their ofiices, and 
promised never again to accept any position in confiict with the charter 
rights of the people. 

Phipps, the high sheriff, appeared also : he was aggrieved at the feel- 
ings of the people towards him for his action in delivering up their powder, 
but in view of the fact that he acted under orders from his commander m 
chief, his offense was condoned. 

Lieut.-(;overnor Thomas Oliver lived then in the mansion which since 
was the home of the poet Lowell. Several thousand people, militia and 
" lookers on." appeared before his house. Previously he had parleyed and 
hesitated, fearing His Majesty's displeasure if he should resign, as requested 
to do, but intimating that he might do so if the whole province desired it : 
but now, seeing the determined spirit of the people, and the uselessness of 



(' 




Francis Tufts. 




i|S» ^ 



/ ' 



>«««BHps. / 



Nathan A. Hitch. 



SOMERV/LLE, PAST .LVD /'RESENT. 49 

further refusal, he signed his resignation as Lieutenant-Governor and 
President of the Council, 

Meanwhile Brattle, who b}' his prominence in this affair had brought 
upon himself the indignation of the inhabitants, tied to Boston, and 
sought refuge in the fold of (ieneral Gage, whence he wrote a woeful story 
of his wrongs and banishment, claiming to be a friend of his country, 
acting for its true interest, yet expressing himself sorry for what had oc- 
curred. , , 1 1 

Meantime the wild rumors afloat had been contradicted, and the people 
returned again to their homes and employments, and all seemed as tranciuil 

as before. 

This great uprising was the rumble of the approaching storm, and 

warning of the coming tempest. 

Paul Reverk's Ride. 
The En^dish Parliament and press during the winter of 1774-5 dis- 
cussed vigorously the dispute with the Colonists ; among each were friends 
to \merica • but the Ministerial party were in the majority, and, urged on 
by the King and Lords, endeavored to enforce the most arbitrary measures, 
among which were further restrictions on trade and the act forbidding 
impor'tation into the colonies of arms and munitions of war. 

This last act caused much alarm, and the Americans took immediate 
steps to secrete and protect the military supplies already accumulated. 

These were distributed among various towns, one of which was Con- 
cord Ga-e learned this, and determined on their capture, divining which, 
the patriots took precautions to prevent. A company of thirty men 
arranged with each other to watch - two and two" the movements of the 
British ■ among these were William Dawes and Paul Revere. Several days 
previous to April .9, the unusual activity of the troops and fleet announced 
to the Americans that some important movement by the enemy was 

contemplated. . -r • . 

John Hancock and Samuel Adams, who were in Lexington were 

cautioned that Gage intended their capture. About this time the wife of a 

British soldier carelessly divulged the order for the expedition to a ady 

who employed her, who promptly gave the patriots warning. William 

Dawes was immediately sent by way of Roxbury and Paul Revere by way 

of Charlestown, to alarm the inhabitants. Revere crossed Charles River 

past the frigate Somerset just before orders were received to stop all 

boats and taking horse on the Charlestown shore, rode with all speed over 

the Neck and up Washington Street, to near the present Cresent Street; 

here he saw two horsemen standing in the road a short distance away; 

perceivino- that they were British officers, he wheeled and galloped back to 

the Neck, and around into Broadway, pursued by one of the horsemen ; the 

other endeavored to head him off by crossing the fields but feU into a 

clav pit, thus enabling Revere to escape. He rode over Wmter Hill and 

Main Street, to and through Medford and Arlington, to Lexington and 



50 soMi'.Rin.Li:. r.isr ixn riuishxr. 

Ijeyond. where he was captured : not, however, until he had thoroughly 
alarmed the country. At the junction of Broadway and Main Street stands 
a^;ranite tablet commemorating this historic ride. 

15ai ri.K oi" Lk\in«;ii)N. 

At about ten o'clock on the night of April iS, 1775, Lieutenant Colonel 
Smith of the Tenth British, with eight hundred men, marched quietly to the 
foot of Boston Common, and crossed Back Bay in boats to Lechmere Point, 
now East Cambridge, landing not very far east of the present Court House : 
the troops, avoiding the roads and highlands for fear of discovery, skirted 
the marshes : and the tide being up, or rising, and East Cambridge then an 
island at high water, they were obliged to wade ''thigh deep" in crossing 
to Somerville, where, striking a byway, they emerged upon Washington 
Street, probably at or near Prospect Street: thence their march was through 
Washington Street, I'nion Square, Bow Street, Somerville Avenue and Elm 
Street, and thence to Concord. 

In those days, an old house, owned or occupied by a widow Smith, 
stood on the east side of the present Wesley Park : here the troops halted 
and quenched their thirst at the well, and were seen by the frightened occu- 
pants of the house. 

Next they passed the residence of Samuel Tufts (now Mr. BlaisdelTs), 
who was in the kitchen at the time, moulding bullets; thence on past 
Thomas Rand's house: Mrs. Kand, who had not yet retired, saw the 
threatening platoons, and after they had gone by sent her son to alarm the 
neighbors. Then they came to Timothy Tufts' house on Elm Street, near 
Beach, stopping there again for water. Mr. Tufts' dog woke the echoes of 
the night, and also the family with his vehement protests. Peering out, they 
saw the hostile columns and Hash of the bayonets in the moonlight, and 
then saw the soldiers turn into Beach Street and disappear, as they con- 
tinued their silent march. 

Their encounters at Lexington C^ommon and at Concord Hrictge, and 
their disastrous retreat, reinforced and perhaps saved from capture by Lord 
Percy, yet still Hying, harassed and relentlessly pursued by the Americans, 
have become notable events in the world's history. Like a rabble rout they 
came down Arlington Avenue into Cambridge and Somerville. The Ameri- 
cans supposed they would retreat as Percy came, through old Cambridge, 
Brighton, and Roxbury : but a confused throng, they turned through Beach 
Street into Elm. At the westerly corner of these streets was a grove, where 
minute men were secreted, who gave the troops a galling fire. The liritish 
who fell here were buried in Mr. Tufts' land, just inside the wall. / 

Percy, who at every available point had endeavored to check the pur- 
suit with his artillery, again opened fire with his cannon, from the northerly 
slope of Spring Hill, on the pursuing minute men, but with little avail ; his 
troops continued their retreat down Elm Street and Somerville Avenue, one 
man being killed near Central Street, at which point a volley was hred into 
Mr. Rand's house, and near Walnut Street another soldier fell. Down 




Albert L. Dodge. 




DAVIU CUMMiNGS. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 53 

Washington Street they went, skirting the foot of Prospect Hill, where oc- 
curred some of the hottest fighting of the day. 

It was now evening, and the Hashes of musketry, which were plainly 
seen in Boston, told vividly the story of their retreat and disaster. 

Throughout the retreat, wherever possible, flanking parties of British 
had been sent out to drive off the minute men. 

The only Somerville citizen who fell on this day was shot by the flank 
guards. He was James Miller, an old man and patriot. 

He with others were on the slope of Prospect Hill, firing on the British 
in the street below, when the fiankers surprised them ; the rest fled, but 
Miller, still firing, stood at his post, and when called upon to fly made tlie 
memorable answer, " I am too old to run." 

( )n the north side of Washington Street, nearly opposite Mystic Street, 
is the house then owned by Samuel Shed : a British soldier entered it, and 
while rummaging a bureau, was shot, falling dead over the drawer ; this 
bureau, or "high boy." as it was called, with its bullet holes, is now in pos- 
session of the descendants of Nathan Tufts. 

The British fiight and pursuit continued until they had crossed the 
Neck into Charlestown, which they did just as Colonel Pickering, with seven 
hundred Essex minute men, came hurrying over Winter Hill, to intercept 
them. Had he arrived a little earlier the entire force would have been 
captured. 

During the battle. General William Heath assumed command ; after the 
Americans had ceased further pursuit, he " assembled the officers around 
him, at the foot of Prospect Hill, and ordered a guard to be formed and 
posted near that place." This was the first guard mountingof the Revolution. 
Sentinels and patrols were also posted near the Neck, to give warning of the 
enemy's movements. The minute men were ordered to Cambridge, where 
all night they lay on their arms. 

The battle of the nineteenth of April began at Lexington, and ended 
in Somerville, and in its glory Somerville is entitled to share. 

Battle of PjUnker Hill. 

On April 20, General Artemas Ward, the senior in date of commission, 
took command of the American forces, with headquarters at Cambridge, 
whence, under the resolve of the Provincial Congress for the enlistment of 
thirty thousand men, the militia from all directions began to march. 

Within a short time there were fifteen thousand troops, or more, in the 
American camp, among them many from New Hampshire, Rhode Island, 
and Connecticut. 

Early in May, a report was made to the Committee of Safety, recom- 
mending the immediate fortifying of Prospect Hill and vicinity, and of 
Bunker Hill : and probably not long after, earthworks were thrown up near 
Union Square, commanding the Charlestown road (VVashmgton Street). 
Troops meanwhile were posted both in Roxbury and Somerville, to repel 
any attempt that might be made by the enemy to march out of l>oston. 



;4 SOMERlJI.Li:, PAST AXP I'RESF.XT. 

Roxbury Neck had been fortified the previous winter by the British, and 
now bristled with thirty cannon or more, but Charlestown was still neutral 
ground. Gage probably fearing to divide his forces by its occupation. 

The measure suggested in May for fortifying Bunker Hill was not 
finally decided on until June 15. when rumors became prevalent that the 
British were again planning to march out into the country. 

On the 1 6th. (General Ward ordered Col. William I'rescott, with three 
Massachusetts regiments, and a batallion of Connecticut troops, about a 
thousand or twelve hundred in all, to proceed that night to Charlestown 
and seize and fortify Hunker Hill. The troops were paraded on Cambridge 
Common, and after a prayer by Dr. Langdon, President of Harvard College, 
at about nine o'clock in the evening, commenced their march towards 
Bunker Hill, passing through Somerville, by way of Washington Street and 
Union Square, down to and across the Neck. Colonel Prescott. with two 
sergeants carrying dark lanterns, led the way. 

(General Israel Putnam and Colonel Richard (Iridley, the engineer of 
the army, accompanied the expedition, and following after were wagons 
with intrenching tools. Their destination was kept a profound secret from 
the troops until after crossing the Neck. 

Prescott had been ordered to fortify liunker Hill, but it was soon 
discovered that Breed's Hill was a superior military position, and after 
consultation, and some loss of time, it was determined to fortify that in 
place of Bunker. 

Col. (kidley immediately laid out the works, which, rising as if by magic, 
confronted and challenged the British Heet and army at sunrise. 

The details of the battle on Bunker Hill are familiar to all, and only 
such events connected with it as occurred in Somerville need be related. 

For some time previous to the 17th, Colonel John Patterson's regiment 
of Berkshire men had been stationed at the redoubt near the foot of Pros- 
pect Hill, where they probably remained throughout the day, having been, 
with Ward's regiment and part of liridge's, held back as a reserve. All 
other Massachusetts troops, and those of New Hampshire and Connecticut, 
were ordered to the front. A great part of them never arrived there, the 
furious cannonading from the fleet across the Neck, and into Kast Somer- 
ville, rendering any attempt to reach the peninsula perilous, ^■et it was 
over this Neck, and through this storm of shot and shell, that the terror- 
stricken people Hed into Somerville from their burning homes in Charles- 
town. 

Early in the fight. Major (iridley. son of the engineer, was ordered with 
his company of artillery to reinforce Prescott; he was a young man with 
but little military experience, and instead of obeying orders, he took a 
position, with a portion of his force, on Cobble, now Asylum Hill ; the rest 
of his company marched on to the scene of action. Col. Mansfield's regi- 
ment passing forward at this time with orders to the front, was directed by 
(iridley to support his battery, which disobeyed previous instructions. 
Mansfield did so, and also took a position on Cobble Hill. Prom this hill 




Frederick G. Smith, M. D. 




Daniel D. Dunklee. 



SOMERllLLK. PAST AND PRESENT. 57 

Gridley opened a feeble and ineffectual fire from his light guns upon the 
British ships which lay in the bay east of the hill. 

Disobedience, or misunderstanding of orders, seemed to be a common 
occurrence. Colonel Scammon's regiment had also been ordered to the 
field of battle, which he curiously interpreted to mean Lechmere Point, now 
East Cambridge, and thither went. From there, however, he soon crossed 
to Cobble Hill and reinforced Gridley, and later on marched as far as 
Bunker Hdl, but too late to be of service. Colonel Gerrish's regiment, also 
under orders to reinforce l^rescott, found lodgment on Ploughed, now 
e'onvent Hill; part of the regiment later were led into action by a brave 
officer, named Febiger. and did valiant service. 

Gridley, Mansfield, Scammons, and Gerrish, were each court-martialed. 
Gridley, Mansfield and Gerrish were cashiered, and Scammons acquitted : 
Gridley on account of his youth not being deprived of the right to hold 
future commission in the Continental Army. 

Somerville beheld vivid scenes of war that day : incessant marching of 
troops towards the front, over Washington Street to Broadway; citizens 
fieeing here from their burning town ; officers galloping to and fro between 
the battlefield and Cambridge ; artillery bombarding the fieet from Asylum 
Hill; shot and shell from the frigates mercilessly raking the easterly part 
of the town ; fugitives and wounded soldiers, on litters or the shoulders of 
their comrades, hurrying to places of safety ; and finally the retreating army, 
who, victorous in defeat, planted themselves on Prospect and Winter Hills, 
expecting and ready for a renewal of the battle. 



CHAPTER V. 



The Siege of Boston. — Intrkmhments Made. — Exch.\nge of Tklsoner-s. — Battle 
OF' Hog Island. — Cage's PRoCLAM.vnoN of Amnesty. — Fortifications on 
Prospect and Winter Hills. — Arrival of Generals Washington, Putnam 
AND Lee. — Declaration ov the Continental Congress. — Description of the 
Patriots' Camps. — Sufferings of the People and Troops. — First Unfurling 
of the New Flag of the United Colonies. ^ Seizure of Dorchester Heights. 
Evacuation of Boston hy the British. 

The investment of Boston began on the night of the battle of Lexing- 
ton, wlien General Heath posted the guard at the foot of Prospect Hill. 

Speaking of that battle a British officer says, '• About seven o'clock in 
the evening^ve arrived at Charlestown." . . . "The rebels shut up the 
Neck and placed sentinels there." ..." So that in the course of two days 
we were reduced to the disagreeable necessity of living on salt provisions, 
and fairly blocked up in l)Oston." 

The posting of troops in Somerville and Roxbury shortly afterwards, 
to check any attempt of the enemy to again leave Boston, and the building 
of fortifications near Cnion Square and the Cambridge line, the first works 



;s somi:R\ilij:. past axd rRi:si:xT. 

tlirown up by the Americans in this war, convinced the liritish that a siege 
was actually begun. 

In the latter part of May Cieneral Burgoyne arrived in lioston, and 
writing to a friend in Kngland. says, speaking of the town, that it is 
" invested by a rabble in arms, who, flushed with success and insolence, 
had advanced their sentries to pistol shot of our outguards ; the ships in 
the harbor exposed to, and expecting a cannonade or bombardment.'' 

The incidents of this siege crowded one upon another in quick succes- 
sion, and we can more readily chronicle them by noting each in the order 
of its occurrence. The earlier operations of the siege were probably 
desultory, and dictated by circumstances. 

In the interim between the battles of Lexington and Hunker Hill, 
many events of interest took place. 

( )n April 20 the .Americans held their first council of war, at which 
were (ienerals Ward, Heath and W'hitcomb, with many other Massachu- 
setts officers, some of whom figured prominently in the battle of June 17, 
notably Colonel William Prescott. Communication between the people of 
I'.oston and those outside was immediately cut off by (iage. who expressed 
fears to the Selectmen that the Americans would attack the town, and might 
be aided by its citizens, which would cause serious results; accordingly, 
on .\\W\\ 22, a town meeting was held, resulting in an agreement allowing 
all women and children who desired, to leave •' with all their eft'ects'" : and 
'• their men also,"' by solemnly engaging not to "take up arms against the 
King's troops, '' •'should an attack be made"; a further condition being 
that all firearms and ammunition be delivered up. This was reciprocated 
by the Provincial Congress, who gave to all outsiders who might wish, per- 
mission to enter IJoston on similar terms ; and officers were stationed at the 
•• Sun Tavern " at Charlestown Xeck, and also in Roxbury, to issue passes 
therefor. I'nder this arrangement nearly thirty-five hundred weapons 
were taken by the British, and never returned. For a while Oage kept 
the agreement in good faith, but later, at the instance of Tory advisers, he 
threw many obstacles in the way of those leaving, such as searching goods, 
separating families, etc., and finally forbade their leaving the town. 

The battle of Lexington was fought by men from Eastern Massachu- 
setts, but immediately thereafter troops from other sections and States 
began to arrive, notably from New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Connec- 
ticut, and later on from Pennsylvania and \'irginia. 

In May fatigue parties were sent out and intrenchments were com- 
menced in Cambridge and Somerville. On the 27th and 2Sth the battle of 
Hog Island occurred, brought on by a detachment sent from this camp to 
capture live stock on Hog and .Noddle's islands (the latter now East Boston) ; 
while doing this they were attacked by the King's troops and ships, but 
escaped to the main land during the night: re-inforced by infantry and 
artillery, they resumed the confiict the next day. and succeeded in blowing 
up one of the British schooners and disabling a sloop ; the trophies of this 
engagement were twelve cannon, more than three hundred head of horses, 




William E. Weld. 




Francis M. Howes. 



S0MER17LLK, PAST .LVD PRESENT. 



6i 



cows and sheep, and a large quantity of hay : with the re-inforcements came 
Generals Putnam and Warren, the latter serving as volunteer ; our loss was 
light in this engagement, but the enemy's was said to be heavy. 

( )n lune 6 the first exchange of prisoners took place ; through Somer- 
viUe the procession passed. Generals Putnam and Warren riding in a 
phaeton, accompanied by three captive English officers in a chaise, and by 
wounded prisoners in carts, all under military escort. At the ferry they met 
Gage's officers, with whom came the American captives. The exchange 
was soon over, the whole affair being " conducted with the utmost decency 
and good humor." 




TUFTS' HOUSE, HEAUQUAkTHRS OF GfcNtRAL Ltt. 



On lune 12 Gage issued his notorious proclamation of amnesty to all 
except Hancock and Adams, which offer the Americans answered five days 

later at Breed's Hill. 

This engagement was the one great battle of the noted siege, and the 
only one whe^re^he two armies met in force. For nine months thereafter it 
was one continuous artillery duel, accompanied with sharpshooting and 

skirmishing. , ^ . . , 

\ curious rumor was circulated after this battle, that the British pur- 
suit had been continued to Winter Hill, where the Americans had again 
repulsed the British with great slaughter. It was only a rumor, however. 

After falling back to Winter and Prospect Hills, on June 17, the pro- 
vincial troops immediately commenced fortifying those eminences; the 



62 soMi:R\n.i.i:, past .\\n i'resext. 

works on Prospect Hill were built under the direction of that wolf-renowned 
hero. Putnam. ( )n this hill the men were subjected to a heavy artillery fire 
from the British, who thus attemjUed to dislodge them : with no result, 
however, except to inure the provincials to the howling of shot and shell. 

Meanwhile the New Hampshire men under General Folsom were forti- 
fying Winter Hill. 

During the month of June smallpo.x broke out and became epidemic, 
causing great distress to the besiegers, and the people of the towns where 
they were quartered. 

On July 2, there arrived in camp General Washington, recently ap- 
pointed Commander-in-Chief, accompanied by (General Charles Lee, second 
in command, and Horatio Gates, Adjutant General of the Army, l^oth 
(iates and Lee had been officers in the British service, but had now 
espoused the cause of the Americans. 

Lee was an eccentric military genius: he was looked upon by many of 
the wisest patriots as scarcely inferior to Washington in loyalty or capacity : 
he had a great reputation as a soldier, having been in service since boy- 
hood. He was an oHicer at the age of eleven, and had served in the British, 
Portuguese, and Polish armies, in the latter acting as aid-de-camp to the 
king; and now he had placed his sword at the service of America, and for 
a long time seemed its most devoted champion, but later his inordinate 
ambition brought disagreement with Washington ; and. after several un- 
pleasant episodes, he was court-martialed and suspended for one year. 
Within a few years, documents have come to light tending to show- that 
Lee, toward the last of his service, played a double part : but while here, he 
was a ''tower of strength "' to the army, and, as commander of the most of 
that portion of it in Somerville, his career has more than usual interest to 
us. 

All the State organizations on July 4 were taken into the service and 
pay of the L'nited Colonies, and re-organized, and on July 22 were formed 
into three divisions, viz : — 

The left wing was composed of two brigades, one at Winter Hill under 
(ieneral Sullivan, the other at Prospect Hill under General Greene. The 
center, two brigades, one commanded by Heath, the other by its senior of- 
ficer: and the right also two, one under 'i'homas, the other under Spencer. / 

The left held the line from Mystic River to Prospect Hill : the center, 
from Prospect Hill to Charles River: the right, from Charles River to 
Ko.xbury Xeck. The entire left wing, and perhaps half of the center, were 
within Somerville limits, and her hills were crowned with the strongest and 
most elaborate works of the whole line : the redoubt on Ten Hills I'arm : 
the "Winter Hill Port'': the "' I'rench Redoubt," on Central Hill: the 
'' Citadel.'" on Prospect Hill: the strong intrenchnients on Ploughed Hill, 
which commanded the Xeck, and defied the P>ritish on Jiunker Hill : •• l""ort 
.Number Three,"' near L'nion Square: and "Putnam's Impregnable For- 
tress," on Cobble Hill : each must have reminded CJage of the similar work 
he had captured at so great a sacrifice, on June 17, and brought to his mind 




% 




Henry M. Moore. 




Caleb L. Sanborn. 



SOMERl'/UJi, PAST .LVD PRESENT. 



65 



the question asked in England, viz, " If it cost a thousand men to take 
Bunker Hill, how miny will it cost to capture all the hills in America ? " 

On July 6, 1775, the Continental Congress issued a declaration setting 
forth the grievances of the Provinces, and reasons for taking arms ; on the 
15 th this was read at Cambridge, and on the i8th, to the army on Prospect 
Hill, and was received with patriotic enthusiasm. A prayer was offered by 
the Reverend Mr. Langdon, cannon were fired, and the Connecticut Hag, 
recently received by Putnam, unfurled. On one side it bore the motto, 
'• An Appeal to Heaven," and on the other, " Qui transtulet sustinet." 




HEADQUARTERS OF GENERAL GREENE. 

The American ritiemen seriously annoyed the English, and cost them 
many lives. Most of these were sharpshooters from Virginia and Pennsyl- 
vania, and, having been accustomed to the ride from childhood, were all 
skillful marksmen. The American soldiers were aggressive, and made fre- 
quent and often successful attempts to surprise the enemy's pickets, burn 
their buildings, or capture their stores, and the British in their turn occa- 
sionally ventured outside their lines on similar errands, but usually with 
less success. 

Some of the diarists of that time have left us interesting pictures of 
camp and conflict ; one, the Reverend William Emerson, father of Ralph 
Waldo, who was chaplain in the army, says : " My quarters are at the foot of 
the famous Prospect Hill, where such great preparations are made for the 



66 MKMi.Ki'iiJ.i:. I'AST .\xn rRi:si:xr. 

reception of the enemy. It is very divertinj^ to walk anion.*; tiie camps" : 
•• some are made of boards, and some of sail-cloth, some partly of one and 
partly of the other. Aj^ain. others arc made of stone and turf, brick or 
brush." ''others curiousl\ wrought with doors and windows, done with 
wreaths and withes, in the manner of a basket." 

Another, in September, speaks of the success, so far, of the British. 
'■ llritain, at the e.xpense of three millions, has killed one hundred and fift\ 
\'ankees in this campaign, which is twenty thousand pounds a head : and 
on Bunker Hill she gained a mile of ground, half of which she has since 
lost by not having post on Ploughed Hill": and adds that, "as meanwhile 
sixty thousand children have been l)orn in America," one can " easily calcu- 
late the time and expense requisite to kill us all, and conquer our whole 
territory." 

In August, there were under Washington's command about forty regi- 
ments, or something less than twenty thousand men. poorly supplied, and 
with so little ammunition that the tiring from our lines from necessity 
nearly ceased. This scarcity of powder caused great alarm among the Amer- 
ican officers, as the Knglish appeared to be preparing for an attack. Re- 
garding it. Colonel Reed wrote. '• The word 'powder ' sets us all on tiptoe ; 
we are in a terrible situation, occasioned by a mistake in a return. We 
reckoned upon three hundred quarter casks, and had but thirty-two barrels." 

Karly in the month of September about eight hundred men were de- 
tached from the army to join General Arnold's unfortunate (Quebec expedi- 
tion, a large part being from Prospect Hill, mostly ririenicn. 

In October. Gage having returned to England. General Howe assumed 
command, and soon issued a proclamation prohibiting anyone from leaving 
I5oston unless by his permission, on pain of execution as a traitor. They were 
also forbidden to carry out more than live pounds in specie, the penalty be- 
ing forfeiture, tine and imprisonment. These measures compelled Wash- 
ington to issue orders of retaliation upon the Tories. 

At this time, and afterwards, the people and troops in l>oston are said 
to have suffered severely from want, increased greatly by the loss of ships 
laden with provisions and stores, captured by our pri\ateers. They were 
" almost in a state of starvation, for the want of food and fuel." and "being 
totally destitute of vegetables, flour and fresh provisions, had actually been 
obliged to feed on horse Hesli." ( )n the 9th of November, a force of four 
hundred British crossed in boats to Lechmere Point, intending to capture 
the stock there, but, the alarm being given, the Americans waded across to 
meet them, a skirmish ensued in which the English ships took part, but 
which resulted, as usual, in the retirement of his majesty's troops. 

( )n the night of the 22d. General Putnam took possession of Cobble 
Hill, and commenced fortifying. The work was skillfully planned and very 
strong, and contrary to expectation, completed without molestation from 
the enemy. 

In December. Lechmere Point was also fortified, but the work on this 
hill was thrown up under a continuous fire of shot and grape from the 




Charles Williams, Jr. 




ARTHUR E. Merrill, M.D. 



SOMERVILLE. PAST A XL) PRESENT. 69 

British, which lasted several days. In this action the fort on Cobble Hill 
took part with good effect, forcing an English ship to retire from the tight. 
(>n December 2S, an endeavor was made by a detachment from Winter 
Hill to capture the enemy's pickets near the Neck. They attempted to 
cross on the ice just south of Cobble Hill ; but one of the men, slipping, fell 
and discharged his musket, thereby alarming the P.ritish, and the expedition 
was abandoned. 

The new year brought much uneasiness to the patriot army ; veteran 
troops, whose time had expired, were returning home "by thousands," and 
new ones replacing them. This change was a difficult and dangerous one to 
make in presence of an enemy, but Washington accomplished it without mo- 
lestation ; and says of it that "it is not in the pages of history, perhaps, to 
furnish a case " like it. 

From Prospect Hill, on j;inuary 1, 1776, the new flag of the United 
Colonies was unfurled to the breeze, and for the first time bid defiance to 
the foe; it had thirteen stripes, alternate red and white ; but the field con- 
tained, instead of stars, as now, the crosses of Saint George and Saint 
Andrew. A year and a half later, stars took the place of crosses. A tablet 
has been erected on the hill in memory of this fiag-raising. 

In February Colonel Knox arrived with the captured Ticonderoga can- 
non and stores, some fifty pieces of artillery in all. These increased im- 
mensely the oft'ensive strength of the Americans, and a little later enabled 
them to carry into execution that daring feat, the seizing and fortifying of 
Dorchester Heights. This successful movement so seriously threatened the 
British army and shipping, that after various threatening manieuvres, on 
Sunday, March 17, they embarked and left I'.oston forever. In their hasty 
departure they left the Americans over one hundred cannon, and an im- 
mense quantity of military stores. / 

The roar of cannon and mortars and the bursting of shells had shaken 
Boston and the surrounding towns, resounding through the valleys, and re- 
verberating among ^he hills, for nine weary months; and now the people 
hailed with rejoicing its cessation, and the departure of the British army of 
occupation. Thus ended the siege, which in its inception, execution and 
triumph was to the Americans one of the most successful achievements of 
the war. But the news in England that her famed legions, supported by 
her renowned navy, could be shut up for eleven months in a beleaguered 
city, and finally driven to sea by a " rabble "' they despised, but feared to 
meet, was a cause of national mortification. 



somi:r\jli.e, past axp presext. 



CHAPTl'.R VT. 

Designed Isolaiion ok Nkw England.— Si kkendek ok Bikcoyne. — Hessian 
Prisoners Qiariereu in Somervii.ek. — Bai.i. and Sliter given by General 
Riedesel's Wikk. — Poor Barracks for the Prisoners. — S(AKcrrv of Fuel.— 
Removal ok hie Prisoners. 

The obstinate resistance of the people of P.oston and of New England, 
and the disastrous results of every attempt at their subju.nation. caused the 
English ministry to look upon that section as the center of insurrection, 
and early in 1777 they planned a campaign designed to sever New England 
from the rest of the colonies. 

The lines of the Hudson River and Lake Champlain were to be oc- 
cupied by armies from Canada, under Rurgoyne, and from New York, 
under Howe. 

These lines were to be strongly fortified, and with the co-operation of 
the deet, it was believed this would effectually hem in the refractory section 
and enable the King's forces to operate elsewhere with greater ease. 

The conception was brilliant, but its execution was a failure, and thus 
fresh laurels were added to the American arms. 

After a series of successes and failures, Burgoyne surrendered to (icn- 
eral Gates at Saratoga, on the 17th of October, 1777. Over nine hundred 
officers and forty-eight hundred soldiers fell into the hands of the Ameri- 
cans, together with thirty-five cannon and about five thousand stand of 

arms. 

Hurgoyne's army consisted of P.ritish. Hessians, Canadians, 'lories and 

Indians. 

J!y the terms of surrender the Canadians were allowed to return 
home, and the English and Hessians were to have free passage to England, 
on condition of not serving again in this contest, IJoston to be their point 
of embarkation. With this understanding they started on their weary jour- 
ney over the (ireen Mountains, and arrived at Somerville on November 7. 
'I'he English, about twenty-three hundred, under (General Philips, were 
marched to Prospect Hill and vicinity, and the Hessians, about nineteen 
hundred, under General Riedesel, to Winter Hill. 

A letter, describing the arrival of the prisoners, says : — 
" Last Thursday, which was a very stormy day, a large number of 
British troops came softly through the town, via W'atertown to Prospect 
Hill. ( )n I'riday we heard the Hessians were to make a procession in the 
same route." 







an 
m5- mfc 



Copied iy CHasfJ^lhot 
ir. per'mi55i'on 



SOMERlYLLIi, FAST AND rRES/uV7\ 7} 

They are described as being poor, dirty and emaciated ; with them 
came "great numbers of women, who seemed to be the beasts of burden, 
having bushel baskets on their backs, by which they were bent double ; the 
contents seemed to be pots and kettles, various sorts of furniture, children 
peeping through gridirons and other utensils." 

General Riedesel's family accompanied the expedition, and m her de- 
scription of this journey, Madame Riedesel says : — 

" As it was already very late in the season, and the weather raw, I had 
my calash covered with coarse linen, which, in turn, was varnished over 
with oil; and in this manner we set out on our journey to Boston, which 
was very tedious, besides being attended with considerable hardship. 1 
know not whether it was my carriage that attracted the curiosity of the peo- 
ple to it — for certainly it had the appearance of a wagon in which they 
carry around rare animals — but often I was obliged to halt, because the 
people insisted upon seeing the wife of the German general with her 
children. For fear that they would tear off the linen covering from the 
wagon in their eagerness to see me, I very often alighted, and by this 
means got away more quietly. However, I must say that the people were 
very friendly, and were particularly delighted at my being able to speak 
English, which was the language of their country." 

" At last we arrived at Boston ; and our troops were quartered in bar- 
racks not far from Winter Hill. M'e were billeted at the house of a coun- 
tryman, where we had only one room under the roof. 

"My women servants slept on the tioor, and our men servants in the 
entry. Some straw, which I placed under our beds, served us for a long 
time, as I had with me nothing more than my own held bed." 

In a short time the quarters of General Riedesel were changed from 
near Winter Hill, where his family had been very unpleasantly situated, to 
more pretentious ones at Cambridge, where most of the captive officers were, 
and where they lived comfortably, if not sumptuously. 

Mrs. Riedesel thus describes one of the entertainments given here : — 

"On the 3d of June, 1778, I gave a ball and supper in celebration of 
the birthday of my husband. I had invited to it all the generals and 
officers." " We danced considerably, and our cook prepared us a magnifi- 
cent supper of more than eight covers. Moreover, our courtyard and garden 
were illuminated. As the birthday of the King of England came upon the 
following day, which was the fourth, it was resolved that we would not 
separate until his health had been drank ; which was done with the most 
hearty attachment to his person and his interests. Never, I believe, has 
' God save the King ' been sung with more enthusiasm or more genuine good 
will." " As soon as the company separated, we perceived that the whole 
house was surrounded by Americans, who, having seen so many people go 
into the house, and having noticed, also, the illumination, suspected that 
we were planning a mutiny, and if the slightest disturbance had arisen, it 
would have cost us dear." 

General Heath, whom we remember at Lexington, was placed in com- 
mand of the prisoners, and of the Americans guarding them. 



74 somi:r\/lli:, past axd i'Ri:si:ni\ 

Meanwhile Congress decided to ignore the articles of surrender grant- 
ing free passage to England, and, as a result, Burgoyne and his troops were 
held as ordinary prisoners of war. This caused intense indignation among 
the captives, English and Hessians, as well as in England ; and with a man 
of less judgment than Heath in command, might have resulted seriously. 

As it was, the troops during their entire captivity were in a state bor- 
dering on revolt. 

Disputes and trouble between them and the Americans were of daily 
occurrence, and in several instances resulted in bloodshed. On one oc- 
casion a Hessian prisoner received a serious bayonet wound from a conti- 
nental soldier, and on another a British soldier a sword thrust from an 
American otiticer. 

The most serious event was the shooting of an English officer who was 
riding in a chaise with two ladies along the foot of Prospect Hill, but who 
failed to answer the challenge of the sentry. 

The act was stigmatized as murder by Burgoyne. and the prisoners 
were wild with exasperation. 'l"he sentry was tried by court-martial and 
acquitted. 

The officer was buried from Christ Church, old Cambridge. 

The British and Hessian soldiers, while in Somerville, were quartered 
in the old barracks left by the Americans after the siege of Boston, the pre- 
vious year, at which the prisoners made bitter and frequent complaints. A 
writer, speaking of them says : " These barracks had been erected for . . . 
use during the siege of Boston, and were of the lightest description. The 
wind whistled through the thin walls, the rain came through the roofs, the 
snow lay in drifts on the Hoor." 

(ieneral Riedesel says of them : " Indeed the greater number of the 
soldiers are so miserably lodged that they are unable to shelter themselves 
from cold and rain in this severe season of the year ; and in spite of the 
handsome promises and the fact that they are here fourteen days, and not- 
withstanding, also, my offer that the men would make the repairs themselves 
if the necessary materials were furnished, nothing has been provided for 
them yet. The soldiers, of whom twenty to twenty-four occupy the same 
barrack, are without light at night. Three of them sleep in the same bed. 
They receive, also, so little fuel that they can scarcely cook our rations, to 
say nothing of warming the cold rooms. In fact, they have not even con- 
sidered it worth while to establish a rule by which the officers and privates, 
according to their rank, may receive fuel." 

The scarcity of fuel during this winter of 1777-f^ was so great that the 
guards as well as the prisoners suffered severely, and in their straits spared 
neither tree nor fence, which, however, furnished meagre warmth for so 
great a number, miserably sheltered. 

The prisoners remained here from November, 1777, until November, 
177.S, when it was thought prudent to move them inland, and they were 
marched first to Rutland, Massachusetts, and then to \irginia. 

Thus ended the Revolutionary drama here. 



:xi 



-< 






> 





>- 
a: 

UJ 

03 



SOMERVILLE, FAST AND PRESENT. 77 



CHAPTER VII. 

Revival OF Industries AFTER the RK\uLunoN. — Bkick-makii\(; in Somekville. — 
Celebrated Farms. — The Bleachekv. — The Middlesex Canal. — Completion 
OF Bridges TO Boston. — The First Railroad THRdUGH Somerville.— Establish- 
ment OF the McLean Asylum. — Robbery of Major Bray. — The Ursuline 
Convent and its Destruction. — Town Improvements. — Establishment of 
Schools.— Beginning OK A Fire Department. — Separation of Somerville from 
Charlestown. 

The Revolution over, industries and public improvements absorbed the 
energies which for eight years had known little else than war, and from this 
time^until its separation from Charlestown, Somerville's material progress 
was continuous, though perhaps slow. Many were the industries of her 
people during this period. Among the most notable w^ere brick-making, 
farming and milk-raising. 

The brick-making business " held high carnival " here for years before 
and since the town was set off. The time, conditions and location, near a 
great city just beginning to change from wooden to brick constructions, were 
more than favorable. The town abounded not only with a superior quality 
of clay, but the best of sand, wiiich were generally near one another. 
Wood had to be brought by team or canal. 

These clays bordered and underlay the marshes and scattered generously 
around the town, from the present Wyatt Park to the northerly slope of Winter 
Hill. The burning kilns, for years, smoked the days and illumined the 
nights. In one way or another a majority, perhaps, of the townspeople 
were interested in this prosperous business. I'he sand industry was also 
great, and its excavations covered a considerable territory, which before 
was at a much higher elevation than now. 

Farming, and milk and stock raising were carried on extensively. The 
old road from Charlestown Neck through Cnion Square, Bow Street and 
Somerville Avenue into Elm Street, from the dairy farms bordering it, was 
called, until recently " Milk Row." Ten Hills, while Derby and Jaques 
were its proprietors, was noted as a stock farm. The best breed of horses, 
cattle and sheep, some being choice importations, gave it a world-wide repu- 
tation. Colonel Jaques was not only a horseman and huntsman, and a 
lover and raiser of fine stock, but the raising of choice poultry was among 
his pursuits. Some of the finest varieties in the country were imported by 
him. Another estate in the town was also noted : the farm of Joseph Bar- 
rell, afterward the site of the McLean Asylum. Barrell was a man of leisure 
and fine tastes. He made horticulture a study, and his gardens contained 
the choicest varieties of fruits and fiowers. 



js soMKRiiLi.i:. /'.IS/- .ix/) /'/,'A's/:xy\ 

While many of the iinportanl induslries which were started here in the 
early days of the century are now almost forijotten, one still llourishes 
after a life of seventy-five years : the bleachery on Somerville Avenue, incor- 
porated in 1S21 as the Charlestown lileachery. It has chan.t^ed proprietor- 
ship and name several times since then, being known as the Milk Row 
Bleachery, the Somerville Dyeing and Bleaching Company, and the Mid- 
dlesex Bleachery and Dye Works. Its latest owners were Messrs. K. M. 
(".ilmore and John Haigh. the latter recently deceased. Ihe bleachery 
l)eople form almost a community of their own, and the narrative of their 
three quarters of a centur\, if written, would be very entertaining. 

One other calling has had a long existence: stone quarrying. It began 
nearly or quite two hundred and fifty years ago. and still fiourishes. 

Among other establishments in Somerville before its incorporation, 
were a pottery, grist mill, distillery, rope walks and spike works. 

Several public enterprises were inaugurated while the city was a part 
of Charlestown. The Middlesex Canal, incorporated in 1792, was com- 
pleted in 1S03. under the superintendence of that famous engineer, Loammi 
lialdwin. It extended from Charlestown to Chelmsford. Ip to 1819 there 
had been one hundred assessments on its stockholders, and the enterprise 
had yielded little if any return to its proprietors, and had cost s 1.164, 200. 
With its locks, bridges and creeping boats, it must have added much to the 
picturesqueness of the landscape. Like the stage coaches and baggage 
wagons of primitive days, it sulkily retreated on the approach of the rail- 
road, and became with them an antique curiosity. Its ruins are still dis- 
cernible in a few places within the city. 

An old stone which stood in Harvard Square until recently, bore the 
words "To Boston S miles." It was set there before Charlestown or Cam- 
bridge had any bridge connection with the metropolis, and indicated the 
distance to it by carriage. From Prospect Hill it \vas nearly ten miles to 
Boston by highway. Great was the rejoicing therefore when, in 17X6, the 
bridge from Charlestown, and in 1793, that from Cambridge to IJoston were 
completed, and the eight or ten weary miles became little more than two. 
In 17S7 the Maiden bridge was built, and in 1S09 the Craigie bridge from 
East Cambridge to Boston. 

About 1S03, Medford Turnpike, now Mystic Avenue, was laid out from 
Medford Centre to Charlestown Neck. Another early road was Middlesex 
Turnpike, now Beacon, and Hampshire Street, from North, now Massachu- 
setts Avenue, at North Cambridge, to Broadw^ay in lower Cambridgeport. 
Both of these great thoroughfares were the direct result of the new l>ridges. 
to which they were the feeders of country travel. But it was the coming of 
the railroad that awoke the new era. The ill effects of its advent on the canal 
and the coach have been mentioned, but it brought a great and general in- 
crease of business and prosperity. 

'The first railroad through Somerville was the Lowell, opened in 1S35. 
Its building incurred much opposition from property owners along its route. 
In 1X36 the Charlestown Branch was incorporated, it being at first what its 





<^/ 



Franklin Henderson. 






! 



M 



\. 




/'/ 



I 



LiNDLEY J. SrURTEVANT. 



SOMER\'ILLE, PAST AM) PRESIuXT. 8 1 

name implies, a branch of the Lowell, running from a point a little north of 
the present Fitchburg, to the wharves in Charlestown, the headquarters of 
the ice traffic. It was shortly after extended to Fresh Pond, and, in 1S42, 
its franchise descended to a new company, the Fitchburg. The first pas- 
senger station in Somerville established on the Lowell road, was at its 
crossing with Washington Street; and the hrst on the Fitchburg, at its 
crossing with Kent Street, just in the rear of the present Franklin School 
lot ; both are now gone. 

The Lowell, and the Charlestown Branch, were the only railroads exist- 
ing in Somerville previous to its incorporation. 

In 1 816 the beautiful estate on Cobble Hill, or, as Barrell named it, 
" Pleasant Hill," was sold to the Massachusetts General Hospital, to be 
dedicated two years later as a retreat for the mentally afflicted, and such it 
has remained until recent days ; but it has now yielded its loveliness to 
traffic's iron rail and wheel. The asylum received its name from fohn 
McLean, its generous benefactor. Its first superintendent was Dr. Rufus 
Wyman, followed consecutively by Dr. Luther A'. I5ell, one of Somerville's 
martyrs in the Civil War, Dr. Chauncy Booth, Dr. John E. Tyler, Dr. George 
F. Jell}-, and last. Dr. Edward Cowles, its present superintendent. 

During the town's pre-incorporate period, two incidents of more than 
ordinary moment occurred : the robbery of Major Bray and the burning of 
the Ursuline Convent. 

The robbery of Major Bray took place on the night of August 13. 1S21, 
on Medford Turnpike, now Mystic Avenue, that reproach to city and 
county, and not far from Temple Street. Medford in those days held high 
place among the towns, as the residence of the Governor, that gallant old 
hero of Bunker Hill and other Revolutionary fields. Major John Brooks. 
His receptions were frequent, and his guests were gathered from Boston 
and surrounding towns. It was on one of these occasions that Major Bray, 
while returning to Boston, was waylaid by that recently imported artist of 
the highway, Mike Martin, alias "Captain Lightfoot," neither of which was 
his correct name. Martin had watched the Governor's house, and as the 
Major drove away, singled him out for his victim. Mounting his horse, 
Martin soon overtook Bray, who at the muzzles of Lightfoot's pistols de- 
livered up his watch and money. Mrs. Bray was in the carriage, but from 
her Martin, who was a chivalrous rogue, took nothing, gallantly remarking 
that he "never robbed ladies." He was captured not long after, tried and 
convicted, and was the first and last example under the law which made high- 
way robbery a capital crime. In his defense he strenuously asserted that 
the pistols which threatened Major Bray were empty and that Bray was un- 
necessarily alarmed. 

The LTrsuline Convent on Mount Pienedict was opened on July 17, 
1826, under the auspices of the " Ursuline Community." Its purpose was 
" the education of female youth," "to adorn their minds with useful knowl- 
edge and to form their hearts to virtue." The school was divided into a 
junior and a senior department ; in the former were taught the "common 



s- .so.u/iA I //././■:. /'.IS J- .i.yj) j'j^/:.s/:\/: 

branches of education," in the latter ancient and modern languai;es. 
sciences, music and art, inchiding ornamental work and other accomplish- 
ments. Probablx no other institution in New England oflered such an ex- 
tensive range of studies. 

.\lthough professedly sectarian, it was liberally patronized by young 
ladies of all creeds, the majority being Protestants ; for it was claimed that 
'• the religious opinions of the children are not interfered with." The 
building was beautifully situated on heights commanding the landscape in 
all directions, and the grounds were ornamentally laid out with line gar- 
dens, foliage and Howers. No event occurred to disturb the " even tenor " 
of the school until 1S33, when the llight of one of its pupils, Miss Rebecca 
Reed, who had been converted from I'rotestantism, and the publication by 
her of a book, purporting to give an account of life there, and of alleged 
abuses, called public attention to the institution, and was largely instru- 
mental in creating a feeling of antagonism against it, especially in the 
minds of those who were prone to strong religious prejudices. 

( )n the night of the 2Sth of July the next year (1S34), a second incident 
occurred which increased intensely this feeling. It was the escape of a 
nun. Sister ■' Mary John," as she was called. She is said to have been suf- 
fering at the time with a tit of " mental derangement." She was sought for 
by the bishop, but at first refused to return. The next day, however, hav- 
ing somewhat recovered, she evidently reconsidered her previous refusal, 
and was taken back to the convent. 

From this occurrence sprang \arious rumors in the press and on the 
streets, all of which were derogatory to the Irsuline Community, and 
tended to greatly increase the feeling against it. Threats of the destruction 
of the building were whispered around, and the excitement grew stronger 
and stronger as fresh rumors passed from mouth- to mouth, until with the 
fatal August 1 1, 1.S34, came the storm which laid all in ruins. 

.\ full warning had been given the '• Community " that the convent was 
to be destroyed on that day, and all indications pointed to the probable ex- 
ecution of the threat, yet only feeble efforts on the part of the town author- 
ities were taken to prevent it. In the early evening a mob of many 
hundred gathered outside the convent grounds, and after much noise and 
disturbance, the gates were forced, fences torn down, and the mob surged 
up to the building. When the lady superior saw the temper of the assail- 
ants, she is said to have endeavored to stay their work by threatening them 
with the retaliation from twenty thousand Irishmen. About this time two 
shots were fired by some one in the crowd, upon which the inmates 
abandoned the building and retired to the gardens. The doors were 
battered down, and the rioters, flushed with excitement, overran the Iniild- 
ing, which was soon in flames. The fire engines were called out. but it is 
nowhere recorded that the firemen made any effectual attempt to quench 
the fire. It was even thought by some, though never proven, that they 
were in sympathy with the mob. The inmates, who were all females, 
sought refuge in the house of Mr. Adams, which is still standing, on Broad- 




William A. Byam. 




< 



S0MER17LLE, PAST AM) J'RK.SE.VT. 85 

way, near Sargent Avenue, and the rioters, having finished their work of 
desolation, retired. It was feared that more rioting would follow, but the 
precautions now taken by the authorities averted further danger. 

Thirteen of those known to have participated in the attack were ar- 
rested and tried, but owing to conflicting evidence, or for some other rea- 
son, only one was found guilty, and it was strongly, and probably with 
truth, asserted, that he, a youth only, was the least guilty of all. Religious 
feeling ran very high in those days, it would seem, and there are also rea- 
sons for believing that pure religious sentiments might have been found as 
easily elsewhere as in the hearts of the men who, m the darkness of night, 
could attack a defenseless community of women and children, most of the 
latter being of their own religious faith. But in condemning a deed, which, 
looked at calmly to-day, sixty-two years after its occurrence, seems to us 
extremely brutal and unchristian, it may perhaps be well to remember that 
in all ages, great political and religious excitement have led men to the 
perpetration of acts which, in their calmer moments, they would have con- 
demned, which leads us to exclaim, nearly in the words of Madam Roland, 
" Oh, religion ! how many crimes in thy name are committed " ; and these 
words are applicable to no one creed alone. 

Hut few town improvements were made in Somerville while part of 
Charlestown. Its highways were neglected and its school facilities 
meagre. I'rue, three important avenues were opened, viz. : Middlesex 
Turnpike, Medford Street and Medford Turnpike. But for these, being 
private enterprises, the town government deserved no credit. Five schools 
had been established, one grammar, and four primary, the buildings being 
one-story, cheap structures, and generally costing not over a thousand dol- 
lars, the land for which, in some cases, had been donated. 

In 1838 one fire engine had been generously given this section, the 
" Mystic, No. 6," it being the cast-oft" " Tub " of Company No. 6, of the penin- 
sula, which then became No. 7. A wooden structure was built for this on 
the site now occupied by the No. i Hose Company, at the corner of Wash- 
ington and Prospect Streets. The Mystic was a small machine, fed with 
buckets. Its company of thirty-five members included many, if not most 
of the prominent citizens of Somerville. 

Twenty years, and probably more, before our city was finally set off 
from Charlestown, the people of this section became dissatisfied with the 
way in which town affairs were conducted. Though contributing their full 
quota to the treasury, they felt that they received no equivalent return in 
public improvements. As the result, attempts were made at various times 
to divide Charlestown, by the inhabitants "outside the Neck," which pro- 
ject was strenuously opposed by the denizens of the peninsula, or, when 
favored by the latter, as on one occasion it was, objectionable conditions 
were imposed, which defeated the project. But at last the "outsiders" 
succeeded in obtaining the act of separation, approved by the Governor, 
March 3, 1842. The act was hailed with delight, and duly celebrated with 
a supper at which were representative guests from surrounding towns, and 
with dancing and a salute of cannon. 



86 



SOMl:R\'ll.Ll'- r.lST AXn rKl-.SIXT. 



CHAITKR Vlll. 
Frdm Sktakai iox 111 THK Rei'.ei.i.ion. 

Town BKC.iNMNt.s.— KxiHNsKs OK Kakly Town (Ioveknmkn i. — HniiiwAYS Described. 

— Growth ok the Tow n. — Survey ok the Town. — Railroaos and their Exten- 
sion.— Horse RaHROADS Ol'ENEI). — iNDl'STRU-.S OK EARI.Y SO.MERVH-I.E. — IM RE 

Department and rrs Crowth. — Organization okthe Somervh.le Light Inkantrv. 

— Schools and their DEVEi.orMENT. — C'iurches. 

Town Bkc.inxinc.s. 
On March 5, two days after the approval by the Governor of the act of 
setting otY, the inhabitants were notified to meet "at the Prospect Hill 
School House " on Medford Street, on the fourteenth day of March, for the 
choice of town officers, at which meeting the following were elected : Select- 
men, Nathan Tufts. John S. Kdgerly, Caleb W. Leland. Luther Mitchell 
and Francis liowman. Town Clerk, Charles K. Oilman. Treasurer and 
Collector, Kdmund Tufts, i'he salaries paid during the first few years 
were many removes from munificent, and compared with the figures of the 
present day, seem extremely diminutive. 

Sai.akiks I'OK 1S42. 
Paid John C. Magoun for assessing taxes . . . S 15.00 
" Charles K. (lilman as Town Clerk. . . . 90-00 

" Edmund Tufts as Treasurer and Collector . . 130.00 

" Oliver Tufts for assessing taxes 



I ;.oo 



Total salaries paid 5250.00 

The salaries of the same officials for 1843 were 5270. The whole ex- 
pense of carrying on the Town (Government from March 3, 1842, to March 
3, 1843. w'as as follows : — 

Cash paid P.enjamin Hadley's note .... 5 600.00 

" " Interest on note 16.00 

" Highways 2,076.57 

" Schools 1.2S7.96 

" " Military P.ounty 45-oo 

" " Fire Department --50 

" " Miscellaneous '54-<3 

•• Salaries and Fees 300.00 

'• Abatement of taxes ^l^-ll 

" " Taxes due 486.58 

" Cash on hand. 511.81 



S5,(.52.o8 




Edwin A. Sanborn, M. D. 




Frank A. Ware. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. ^9 

The receipts of the town the first year were : — 

From Taxes #5^007.08 

" Benj. Hadley's note ^'°o-°° 

" The State Military l^ounty 45 -oo 



"otal . . • ^5 



,(');2.oS 



The town grew rapidly and the public expenses kept pace. I'.y 1S53. 
the cost of schools had increased to 59,150.51: highways to >3^^)S3-^7- 
fire department to $i47-39^ and salaries to .5708.50: while 51,112.67 was 
spent for relief of the poor, the total expense for the year bemg 524,356.37, 
or four times the amount spent in 1.S42. 

In 1S60, the year previous to the war, the town's expenses had mcreased 
to $3,S,o52.87, the schools costing 5i7-505-9i, highways 56,989.39, fire de- 
partment $1,821.41, salaries 5 1.453 45, and the poor 5 1.660.81. Tlie salaries 
this latter year were as follows: Town Clerk, 5300.00: three Assessors, 
5400.00: Collector, .5453-45 : Treasurer, 5300.00. 

Highways. 
Somerville began her town career with a meagre equipment : a pound, a 
valueless fire engine, a few cheap schoolhouses, and some poor roads, 
completing the list of her possessions. 

Broadway and Washington Street were her oldest and principal high- 
ways. Milk Street (Somerville Avenue), from North Cambridge to Elm 
Street was new ; from there to Bow Street it was part of the ancient 
"Charlestown Lane," thence to Union Square recent, and new from the 
Square to Medford Street, the different sections being laid out at various 

times. 

In earlier times. Bow and Elm Streets were also parts of " Charlestown 
Lane " Prospect, Beacon and Main Streets, and Mystic Avenue, were all in 
existence in 1842. Franklin and Cross Streets were open, but the remaming 
Rancxeways were narrow, and probably steep or otherwise impassable, or 
entirdy closed. Sycamore and Temple Streets were private lanes. The 
former ran from Barberry Lane to the old Lee Headquarters, the latter 
from Broadway to Colonel laques' mansion. Newton Street, from Prospect, 
southerly, was the narrow and antique Brick Yard Lane, runnmg, as its 
name says, to brickyards. A part of it, however, was one of the pre-revolu- 
tionary ways from Charlestown to Cambridge. Medford Street was also 
open from Ikoadway to East Cambridge. Barberry Lane was the '• Middle 
Way " of a century ago. It was one rod and a half wide, and began at Cross 
Street opposite the Lniversalist Church; thence it ran to Fosdick Square 
which was where Medford Street and Highland Avenue now join, and 
thence to School Street, where the first section of it ended. 

The Lowell Railroad cut this lane in two. Avon Place from Cross Street 
to the railroad was a part of it, and Chester Avenue another part : the re- 
mainder of it was widened to forty feet, and became " Church Street, part 
of the Highland Avenue of to-day. The second section of Barberry Lane 



cjo soMJiRi'JU./:, j:ist .lvd /'A'a.v/aw. 

began at miidoI Street about ten rods north of the first, and ran north- 
westerly to Central Street, where it ended ; it was lonji^ since abandoned. 

The growth of the town between 1S42 and \>^(>\ claimed the constantly 
increasing attention of the Selectmen to the improvement of the old, and 
the building of new streets. Ihe Department of Highways during this pe- 
riod was carefully and economically managed ; streets were graded and 
macadamized, sidewalks built, gutters paved, street signs put up. etc. The 
fact that our soil was chiefly clay or clayey gravel, and our ledges mostly 
slate, both unsuitable material for heavy travel, rendered the task of good 
road making very difficult, so that notwithstanding their best efforts, our 
most traveled streets were at times beds of dust, or sloughs of mud. With 
a view to remedying this, a gravel bank was early purchased at Winchester, 
and gravel for our roads was brought over the railroad. 

In 1S51, a careful survey of the town was made, and in 1S52 a map 
published by Martin Draper, Jr., who at that time was principal of the 
Prospect Hill (Irammar School. 

In 1S39, the town voted to have a complete survey of its highways, 
which was begun shortly after, and finished in iSf)i. The survey embraced 
all the roadways then opened, public or private, and many prospective ones, 
it was carefully done, and granite posts were set to define and preserve the 
street lines. 

When the town was incorporated, it consisted chieriy of farms, brick- 
yards and marshes. Some lands in Kast Somerville had been lotted and 
put on the market, but little if any elsewhere. Soon, however, there was 
great activity in real estate, so that by 1S55, land valued in 1842 at only 
fifty or one hundred dollars an acre, had advanced to two or three thousand 
dollars per acre, and some to ten thousand ; and nourishing settlements 
began, not only in East Somerville. but near Inion Square and on Pros- 
pect, Spring and Winter Hills, each a little village of itself. 

In 1.S42 the population was 1.013. i" '^50, 3,524, and in 1S60, 8,025 • ^'i^' 
valuation also increased from <(;8S.5i3 in 1S42. to $2,102,631 in 1S50, and 
to ?6. 033, 033 in i860. 

In its first year the town taxes were 55,007.08, in 1850. .Si6,956.22.in 1855. 
527,701.46, and in i860, 529,316.11 ; the tax rate per thousand being in 
1842, ?4.29; 1845, $3.60; 1850, ^5.65 : 1855, 56.40; i860, $5.70. 

The prosperity of the town is perhaps indicated by the fact that while 
in 1842 only two persons, Henry Hill and Charles Tufts, paid over one 
hundred dollars in taxes, in 1850, fifteen residents and seven non-residents 
paid taxes ranging from one hundred and one dollars to three hundred 
and thirty-nine dollars; and in i860, thirty-seven residents and thirteen 
non-residents paid taxes ranging from one huiulred and three dollars to 
five hundred and seven dollars each. 

K.Ml.RD.ADS. 

The l-'itcliburg Railroad, the successor to the ( harlestowii I'.ranch ((jf 
the Lowell), incorporated in 1842, was opened to U'altiiam in 1843, and to 








Shephard S. Woodcock. 




Frank A. Teele. 



SOMERl'lLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 93 

Fitchburg in 1845 ; its crooked route through Somerville was meanwhile 
straightened, and a few years after, it was extended to Boston, its terminus 
previously having been Charlestown. Until 1.857 it crossed the I>owell at 
grade, but it was then lowered and the Lowell raised and bridged o\er it. 

In 1.S51 the Vermont Centra! was hnished. v.hich ga\-e continuous rail- 
road connection between IJoston and Canada. The rejoicing over this event 
lasted several days. One feature of the celebration was a steam calliope, 
whose musical scream some of our older citizens probabl\' remember. 

The year 1S45 saw the extension of the Boston and Maine through 
Somerville to boston. 'I'his road was chartered in 1S33 as the Andover and 
Wilmington, and was then a branch of the Lowell. 

The Grand Junction Railroad was projected in 1^49, and was built from 
the Eastern and boston and Maine to the Fitchburg. It was opened in 
I S5 I, and later was extended across Cambridge and the Charles River to 
the Albany Railroad. After considerable litigation it passed, in 1S69, into 
the control of the Albany, by reason of whose connection with the western 
railroads, the Grand Junction became the great feeder for European tratfic. 
At this time there were no regular lines of steamers between Boston and 
foreign ports. They were soon established, however, and proved so successful 
that the number which cleared during the year 1S80 was over three hundred, 
and Boston's exports increased proportionally. 

The Eastern Railroad, which previously ran from Salem to deejD water 
at East Boston, was extended through this town to Boston proper in 1854. 

The Harvard Branch was another railroad built here before the war. It 
started from the Fitchburg near the Bleachery and ran to Harvard Square, 
the depot being near the junction of Kirkland Street and North Avenue. It 
was incorporated in 1848, but had a short life, having ceased running in 1851. 
Its entire equipment was a single passenger car, in one end of which was 
the locomotive, whose smoke-pipe, covered with a screen, peeped out above 
the roof, from which circumstance it was christened the " pepper-box," which 
it somewhat resembled. 

These were all the railroads built in Somerville before the war ; others 
will be mentioned in a later chapter. 

Previous to 1858 steam cars and omnibuses or " hourlies "were the only 
conveyances to Boston, but neither full}- accommodated the public. This 
year two lines of horse railroads were opened into the town, one over 
Broadway to Winter Hill, the other up Washington Street to I'nion Square, 
and thence through Somerville Avenue (then Milk Street) and Elm Street to 
West Somerville. They were built along the sides of the streets, near the 
gutters, and were laid with sleepers and T-rail, like those of a steam road. 

Indusiries. 

In 1842 the inhabitants of the town were chiefly employed in brick- 
making, farming and milk raising; but "New times demand new manners 
and new men"; so after the "separation" advertisements were inserted in 
the Boston papers, calling the attention of mechanics and others to the in- 



'-4 Si)Mi:R\JLLE, PAST AXJ) I'RLSEXT. 

fam town. In 1.^45 it had added tinware, pumps, paint manufacturing and 
ciii^ar makinj^:, and perhaps other trades, and in 1S55, besides the foregoing, 
we find a long list of new industries, among the principal of which are 
rolling and spike mills, steam engines and boilers, brass tube works, glass 
works, vinegar works, steam planing mills, harness and trunk factory, curry- 
ing, a bakery and ujiholstcry hair factor\ . This increase of trades and 
manufactures was probably due largely to. the railroad facilities of the town. 

A comparison of the products of a few of the principal industries of 
1S45 with those of 1855 show some of the changes wrought in a decade. 
Bricks made in 1S45, 27,500,000; in 1S35, 17,000,000; decrease, 10,300,000. 
Potatoes raised in 1843,5,700 bushels; in 1833, 1,400 bushels; decrease, 
4.300 bushels. Hay in 1843, 980 tons; in 1853, 630 tons; decrease. 330 tons. 
\'alue of horses, cattle, etc., in 1843, S2o,ooo; in 1833, ,s42,ooo. Cordage 
manufactured in 1843, 14 tons: in 1833, 34 tons. Cloth bleached or 
dved in 1843,4.300,000 \ards : in 1833,21,600,000 yards. It will thus be 
seen that in this decade began the decline of brickniaking and farming, 
while manufacturing and kindred industries increased. 

I'he Middlesex Bleachery and Dye Works employed in 1843 thirl\-seven 
persons, and in 1833, eight\-. JJrickmaking in 1843 gave employment to 
about three hundred and fifty men in the various yards, but in 1853 there 
were only two hundred and twenty engaged in it. 

The Cnion Glass Works were established about 1834, with a capital of 
560,000. the i)rojectors being Amory and Francis Houghton. In 1833 the 
value of glass ware made was <i 20.000, and it employed (me hundred work- 
men. Ihe establishment is still in operation, after a life of over forty years. 

The American Brass Tube Works were built in or about 1831, for the 
manufacture of seamless brass tubes, the process being a carefully guarded 
secret, not patented. Their capital was .s 100,000, and the product in 1833 
was said to be S200.000. and the number of men employed forty. 

I'IRK Dl'.l'ARrMKXr. 

The first attempt to obtain a fire engine for the Somerville district is 
related in Charlestown records thus : — 

•' 7th March, 1831."' " \'oted that the subject of the 8th article, to wit. 
' I'o know whether the Town will purchase an engine to be located at or near 
the School house, .Milk Row, petitioned for by Samuel Kent and others,' be 
referred to the engineers to consider and report at the adjournment of the 
present meeting." and the result is shown in the following record. " April 
4, 1831." '• Inder the 8th article, the engineers, among other things re- 
ported, as on file, that it is inexpedient to purchase an engine to be located 
at Milk Row: which report being read, thereupon, voted that the same be 
accepted." 

The above location asked for must have been near the cemetery. In 
1838, the old Charlestown Co. No. 6 desiring an improved machine, the au- 
thorities generously donated the old "Mystic No. 6" to Somerville, and at a 
town meeting on May 7, the following "Article 1 i " was presented : " To see if 




Daniel W. Sanborn. 



1^ 



^ 




Eugene D. Lacount. 



SOMERVILLE. PAST AND PRESEXT. 97 

the Town will erect a house for Engine No. 6 near Milk Row," whereupon it 
was " voted " '' That the engineers be authorized to erect the house at the 
place named in the article," and also " voted" "That S400 be raised for the 
purpose of defraying the expenses of building said house." 

The Somervillians of those days were hard to satisfy, for soon a further 
demand seems to have been made, and on March 27, 1S39. it was — 

"Voted" "That Messrs. Goodrich and KUiott [J'.J.] be a committee to 
consider of the expediency of erecting a belfry on engine house No. r., Milk 
Row ; also to ascertain the probable expense and report to the Board," and 
on "April 8, 1S39, voted, that Nathan Tufts be added to the committee to 
consider the expediency of erecting a belfry on engine house, Cambridge 
Road [Milk Row] so called." " The committee subseciuently reported that 
It was expedient to erect the belfry, whereupon, voted, that the committee 
proceed forthwith to erect the same, provided the cost does not exceed forty 

dollars." 

In 1 84 1 the " Milk Row " Company evidently became dissatisfied with 
their miniature bucket machine, and asked for a " suction engine," with the 
customary success, for we find it recorded that, on petition of Hiram Allen, 
voted, inexpedient to buy a new " suction engine " to replace No. 6 ; and so 
" Mystic 6 " remained eight years longer, the only protection from fire for 
this section. 

In 1849 the new "crack" " Hunneman tub," was purchased by the 
town and christened " Somerville No. i," and the poor friendless " Mystic 
6 " was trundled off to a stable on Broadway near Marshall Street, and 
four years later was sold for $33.00 as old junk. 

In 1850 an Act of the Legislature was passed " to establish a fire depart- 
ment in the town of Somerville." The department was organized with 
Nathan Tufts as its first chief engineer. He was followed by Abram Welch, 
Robert A. Vinal, and John Runy, who was the last chief previous to the war. 
None of these are now living. 

Herein has been outlined only the early history and chief events of 
Somerville's Fire Department, as elsewhere in this volume their narrative 
has been more fully written. 

Military. 
The first indication of martial spirit in Somerville. after the " separa- 
tion," is shown by an item in her annual expenses for " military bounty," 
$45.00 paid to John S. Kdgerly and eight others. These bounties continued 
to be paid in varying amounts until 1853, when the Somerville Light Infan- 
try was organized under command of Captain George O. Brastow, suc- 
ceeded in 1854 by Captain Francis Tufts. In 1859 Captain Brastow agahi 
assumed command. The company's armory and drill room was at first m 
" Franklin Hall," which on Sundays was used as a church. The hall was 
in Union Square at the junction of Somerville Avenue and Washington 
Street. It was owned by Mr. Robert Vinal and has since been destroyed 
by fire. Upon the completion of the new brick engine house at the corner 



98 SOMERIJLLE, I'AST AXD I'KESllXT. 

of \Vashini;lon and Prospect Streets, its armory w.is transferred to that 
building. 

The Somerville Light Infantry, at this time, was attached to the 5th 
regiment as Company " B" : at the commencement of the war in 1.S61 be- 
coming Company " I.'" I'he honorable record of this organization in the 
Civil War will be mentioned in a succeeding chapter. 

I'he early military matters of Somerville can hardly be referred to with- 
out mentioning three persons identified prominently with the state militia. 
They were Colonel Samuel Jaques, spoken of in a former chapter, Captain 
Henry A. Snow of the lioston Fusileers, identified with that company since 
1S41, and still its captain ; and Major Caleb Page, commander of the " Fly- 
ing Artillery." that company whose lightning manceuvres were the admira- 
tion of all. 

Scnoc)i>. 

Her schools, the pride of Somerville, had humble beginnings. Five 
little houses, grudgingly built by the Charlestown authorities before the sep- 
aration, were her entire educational establishment. They were as follows : 
'• Pound Primary," on liroadway, corner of Franklin Street. 
" Winter Hill Primary," west side of Central Street, near Broadway. 
" Milk Row i'rimary," on Somerville Avenue adjoining the cemetery. 
" Prospect Hill Primary," on Medford Street, in what is now Central 
Square. 

"Prospect Hill Grammar," adjoining the primary, in Central Sciuare. 
.\nother school was kept for a part of the year 1S42, known as the 
" Primary School in the Russell District," though there was then no school- 
house in that part of the town. 

The teachers of these schools, and their salaries for the term commenc- 
ing .May I, 1S42, and ending February 1. 1.S43, were as follows, viz. : — 
Pound Primary, Mary K. ]]rown ..... 5i57-5o 
Winter Hill Primary, Lucy I). Smith .... 1575° 

Milk Row i'rimary, Sarah M. liurnham .... i57-5o 
Prospect Hill Triinary, i'.liza !'. Whitrcdge . . . i57-5o 
Russell District Primary (C) mos.), Clara D. Whittemore 72.00 

Prospect Hill (Grammar, Wm. F. Craves .... 450.00 

Total amount jxaid teachers the first year of the town . 51,152.00 
All other school e.xpenses were .< 135.96, making the total cost of schools. 
including salaries, for this first year, 5i,287.</). 

The assessed value of the foregoing schoolhouses in 1S43 was : — 

Pound School $600.00 

Prospect Hill (irammar and i'rimary .... 1.400.00 

Milk Row r.50.00 

Winter Hill 500.00 



Total value of schoolhouses in Somerville when set off. 53,1 50.00 




Henry F. Lombard. 




G. Leslie Nichols. 



SOMERMLLi:. PAST AXD PRESENT. lOI 

In 1S43 two new schoolhouses were built, one in the " Russell District " 
on Broadway on land purchased of Charles i'ufts at a cost of 5100, known 
afterwards as the Walnut Hill School and the other as the " Lower Winter 
Hill School,"" which probably replaced the " Pound School." These were 
built by Mr. Jerome Thorp, who is still a resident of the city, and at a cost 
of $600 and f<')05 respectively. 

New schoolhouses and schools raised the educational expenses of 1S43- 
1S44 to $3,393. NS, but in 1844-1S45 they fell to $2,761.35. The average of 
pupils attending school in 1S43 was two hundred and hft>-five, and the 
number of children returned as of school age was three hundred and two. 

The first published report of the School Committee was that of April, 
1S44, covering the year of TS43-1S44, and was made by Luther \\ Bell, its 
chairman. This report, in speaking of the two new schoolhouses built the 
previous year, says, " The edifices are planned externally with much taste, 
and the internal arrangements made in the most approved mode." They 
are spoken of as " little temples of learning.'" The committee also suggest 
to the parents that '' posterity would thank them should they, the present 
spring, set out as many trees as are needed, in the squares which have been 
reserved about the schoolhouses," adding that, "The spirit of the age and 
of the Commonwealth requires that this should be done," which spirit has 
since materialized in our annual Arbor Day. 

Durmg the year 1S46-1S47 two more school edihces were erected and 
named, one the " Prescott " grammar and primary, on the corner of Broadway 
and Franklin Streets, the other the " Franklin '" grammar and primary, on 
Milk Row (now Somerville Avenue) at corner of Kent Street. Thus by the 
beginning of the year 1S47 the five schools had increased to nine, three 
grammar and six primary. In 1 S4,S the commodious Prospect Hill grammar 
and primary school was built. It accommodated two hundred and sixty-four 
pupils, and was opened on December 25. The name of the old " Prospect 
Hill" was now changed to " Medford Street School.'" On September 1, 
1848, a new school was commenced on Beacon Street, south of Washington 
Street near the Cambridge line, and called , the " Harvard Primary."' Its 
house was the old school building removed from the Prescott district, and 
perhaps the one built there in 1S43 as before mentioned. 

The School Committee, in their report of March, 1849, speak with pride 
of the increase in school facilities, and say that "the liberality of the town 
in providing for its schools has placed it first on the list in the county, and 
only third in the Commonwealth."' 

The following is a list of the books used in the grammar schools in 
1 849 : — 

WelFs Grammar, Russell's Sequel to Primary Reader, Russell's Intro- 
duction, American First Class Book, Instructive Reader, Worcester's Dic- 
tionary, Swan's Spelling l]ook, Mitchell's Geographies, Fmerson's Arith- 
metic, Parker's Philosophy, Worcester's History, Wreath of School Songs. 

In 1850 the " Spring Hill Primary " was erected on Elm Place, and the 
" Cherry Street Primary " School on the west side of the street, near Elm, 



I02 so.u/:a'I7/././:\ r.isr .^xn /'A'/:s/:.vr. 

in 1S51. liut the event which marked an era in the school history (jf the 
town was the foimdin<v of the High School. 

In recommending the establishment of a High Sciiool. the committee, 
in their report of .March, 1S51. suggest three ways for its accomplishment. 
First, to use the Prospect Hill School building for it ; second, vestry of the 
L'nitarian Church : and third, to build a one-story building on Central Hill. 
The High School building was finished in 1.S52. It is the present City Hall, 
and cost 57,S.Si.3S. The school began with si.\ty-si.\ pupils, Mr. Robert 
Bickford and .Miss E. C. Habcock being its first teachers. 

The Porster School on Sycamore Street, named for a prominent citizen, 
Charles Forster, was built in 1S54. 

In 1S57 the Prescott School was built. It was of brick, and the most 
costly structure built by the town previous to the war. 

The Krastow School was commenced in i860 and completed in 1S61, on 
the old "pound lot" on Medford Street.'where the new steamer house now 
stands. It was the last school edifice built during the pre-rebellion period. 

The town had now' (.March. 1S61) twenty-two schools, and thirty teachers 
with salaries amounting to $13,050. It began in 1S42 with Wve schools, 
si.\ teachers and a salary list of .<i,i52. 

Churches. 

From its settlement in 1629, until the year 1S44, the people of this sec- 
tion attended public worship probably either in Charlestown or Cambridge, 
and possibly a few in Medford, listening to the persuasive words of such 
pastors of early renown as Zachariah Symmes, John Harvard the founder 
of the I niversity. Thomas Shepard. Simon Eradstreet and Thomas Pren- 
tice, and other inspired teachers. In the church membership, from earliest 
to recent times, we find Somerville names : among others for instance, in 
the earlier years, such as Governor Winthrop and General Gibones, and in 
later. Xathan Tufts, Samuel Jaques and others. In the early records are 
also many references to church land and lots here in Somerville. one as 
early as 1638, and two in 1788. one lot on '" Walnut," now College Hill, one 
lot on "Three Pole Lane " (Cross Street), and one lot "in Rangeway " 
(.Middle Lane, now Highland Avenue). .\ later record says. "The new 
church in Somerville now stands upon this lot," which was the first l'nita- 
rian. " thrice destroyed and thrice rebuilded." the last time on a new and 
the i:)resent location. 

The first church formed in Somerville was the Congregational Cni- 
tarian .Society just mentioned, organized .August 22, 1844, in the old " Milk 
Row" Kngine House. .Afterwards it built its church on Highland Avenue, 
then called Church Street. It has had two edifices destroyed by fire, and 
one unroofed by the wind, and is now occupying its fourth. 

The Perkins Street Baptist Church was the second, organized in 1845, 
in the residence of Reverend William Stowe. on Pleasant Street, its first 
church being built the same year. 

Then came the First Baptist Church, founded in 1.S52, whose earlier 




N. Everett Fitz. 



\ 




Fred M. Kimball. 



SOMERl'JLLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 105 

services were held in a chapel, since a schoolhouse on Beach Street, and 
whose present edifice, on the crown of Spring Hill, was built in 1.S73. 

The fourth was the Franklin Street Congregational, organized in 1S53. 
and which society built their church edifice in 1834. 

The fifth was the First I'niversalist, whose earh- meetings were in the 
old Medford Street Schoolhouse. Its first edifice was a chapel on Tufts 
Street built in 1859. its next was on the corner of 'Fufts and Cross Streets, 
on land given by Mr. Charles Tufts, the founder of Tufts College ; this was 
burned in 1868, and replaced with the present structure, on the same site. 

The sixth and last church which was founded during the period treated 
of in this chapter was the Methodist Episcopal organized in 1855, and 
which met at first in Franklin Hall, L'nion Square. The society afterwards 
built a church building in 185.S or 1S59, on Webster Avenue, which has smce 
been remodeled into the Parochial School. Its church is now on Summer 
near Bow Street. 



CHAPTER IX. 

The Civil War. 

Somervillk's Responses.) Pkksidknt Lincoln's Calls for Men. — Appropkiations by 
THE Town for Soldiers and their Families. — Bounties Offered. — Somerville 
Light Infantry. — Somerville Guard. ^ — Volunteers for the War. — State 
Bounties. — Officers of Somerville Companies in the War. — Service durinc; 
the War of the Companies from Sumervh.le. — The Martyr Roll. 

When the "long roll" sounded throughout the land, after the fall of 
l-'ort Sumter, and President Lincoln called for seventj'-five thousand men to 
quell the rising rebellion, the regiments of Massachusetts promptly re- 
sponded. Among the earliest was the Fifth, in whose ranks was the Somer- 
ville Light Infantry, then Company "I." And as promptly the people of the 
town also responded. 

Enthusiastic meetings were held in the public halls, the engine house 
and the open air. 

Subscriptions were raised and committees appointed. ( )ne of the first 
meetings was held in the Town Hall, on April 17, 1861. It was a largely 
attended and enthusiastic gathering, and a fund of over ?4.3oo was soon 
raised for assisting the families of the Somerville Company, which had been 
ordered immediately to Washington ; this meeting was followed by others. 
Private subscriptions were prompt and liberal, as were also the appropria- 
tions of the Town, not only at the beginning, but throughout the whole 
period of the war. During the four years' contest, Somerville expended for 
the soldiers and the cause, from its public treasury, one hundred thirty-five 
thousand five hundred sixty dollars, and from the contributions of its 
citizens, sixty-five thousand eight hundred twenty-two dollars ; in all, two 
hundred one thousand three hundred elghtv-tvvo dollars. 



I06 SOMERllI.I.i:, /'.IS J .l.\7) />/c/:.s7:.v/\ 

The Selectmen were then : liLnjaniin Kaiulall. ( aptain 1 Icnry A. Snow. 
Captain I'honias Cunningham. .\ll)ert Keimeson and Charles H. Cuild. 
They entered with alacrity vipon the duties which war had so suddenly 
placed upon them, and under the instructions of the Town at its April 
meeting, they at once urge forward the necessary enlistments, and took 
measures to secure comfort for the soldier in the held and for his family at 
home. In the performance of these duties, the visits of Captain C uniiing- 
ham. Captain .Snow and Mr. Cuild to Washington and the camps were 
frequent. 

C.'M.i.s I'oR Troops. 

At the first alarm, Captain I'.rastow had called together the Somerville 
Light Infantry; this was on April 17, and on the 19th the Company With its 
valiant Captain were in camp, and a few days later, on their way to the 
front, serving more than the term for which they enlisted. 

On May 25. 1.S62, the National Capital being again threatened. (Gov- 
ernor Andrew called out the State Militia, who assembled on lioston Com- 
mon in readiness for an expected summons from the President. The Somer- 
ville Company, under Captain W. E. Robinson, answered, but their services 
were not then required, and they returned home. 

On the 2.'^th of June, President Lincoln made his famous call for " three 
hundred thousand more," under which the quota of Somerville was ninety- 
two. The Selectmen began immediately to raise a full company which was 
to be known as the " Somerville (iuard." 

From this time on recruiting became more difficult. A town meeting 
was held July i<^ and a "committee of sixty" citizens appointed to co- 
operate with the Selectmen in all matters of enlistment to fill the cjuota. 

Mass meetings, with patriotic addresses and martial music, were again 
held to promote volunteering, and in August a bounty of one hundred 
dollars to every recruit was offered, which was increased to one hundred 
and twenty-five dollars by private subscription. 

The Company's camp was on Prospect Hill, where it remained for 
several weeks. Ultimately it w^as attached to the yAh regiment, as Com- 
pany '* E," and under command of Captain Fred R. Kinsley it proceeded 
to the front, where it ''proved an honor to the Town and the State." 

Very soon came another requisition for troops, a second "three hun- 
dred thousand more," and the old 5th again responded. 

The Somerville Light Infantry, which at its first enlistment was Com- 
pany " 1," now became Company " H," of the same regiment. 

Lpon the departure of the '' Somerville (}uard," its camp on Prospect 
Hill was occupied by this company, now commanded by Captain Benjamin 
F. Parker. Here it remained until September 6, when it joined the 
regiment at Washington. On October 22, it left for Xewbern, North Caro- 
lina. 

Meanwhile the Town had raised its bounty for volunteers to two hun- 
dred dollars. 




George F. Sturtevant. 




Alexander a. Sanborn. 



SOMERl'ILLK. PAST AND PRESENT. IO9 

X'nder these two "three hundred thousand more" calls, Somerville 
furnished about live hundred and sixty-eight men. at a net cost for bounties 
and all other expenses of thirty-two thousand seven hundred and sixty-four 
dollars, beside which, up to June i. 1863, the town had expended in aid to 
two hundred and fifty families, the sum of thirteen thousand and sixty 
dollars. 

At the beginning of the year 1S63, there were from Somerville, two full 
companies in the field, beside about three hundred other ofiicers and men. 
in various regiments from Massachusetts, and other loyal states. 

In June, 1863, the Somerville Light Infantry, whose term of nine months 
had expired, returned to Somerville, and was heartily welcomed home by 
the citizens, the company having lost but one man, Samuel G. Tompkins. 

In July, 1863, a demand on Somerville was made for one hundred and 
eighty-six men, and a draft ordered. Of this number one hundred and eighty- 
three responded promptly, without waiting to be drafted. 

The third call for three hundred thousand came in October, with a 
requisition on Somerville for ninety-two, the same number as in the first 
call, which were required by January 5. 1864. 

Bounties were now offered by the State. \'olunteering being exceed- 
ingly slow, war meetings were held, and the enrolled men (those liable to 
military duty) of the Town were called together, which resulted in a liberal 
financial response, and enabled the " War Committee " to follow the lead of 
other towns and obtain recruits from wherever they could be procured ; by 
February i, the limit having been extended, the town's quota was filled. 

Another call for two hundred thousand came, and to it Somerville again 
promptly responded. 

In luly, 1864, an assessment of 530,000 was levied upon the citizens, 
the share charged enrolled men being greater in proportion than to others. 
Under this measure the town ultimately received and disbursed $15,609. 

Between October 17, 1864, and March i, 1865, five hundred and nine 
men were asked for from Somerville, and six hundred and twenty furnished, 
which left one hundred and eleven men to be credited the town upon any 
future call. 

SOMKRVILLE TroOPS. 

■j'he following is a summar\- of the Somerville companies during the 
war, giving their terms of service and names of ofiicers : — 

Company 1, 5th Regiment. April 19 to July 31, 1861. Captain, George 
O. Brastow. ist Lt., William K. Robmson. 2d Lt., Frederick R. Kinsley. 

Company I], 5th Regiment. May, 1862. I nder command of Captain 
William E. Robinson. Ordered out by Governor Andrew, but not being 
needed, returned home. 

Company F, 39th Regiment. August 12, i8(.2, to June 2, 1865. Captain, 
Frederick R. Kinsley, ist Lt., Joseph J. Giles. 2dLt., Willard C. Kinsley 
(promoted to Captain). And the following by promotion — viz. : Captain 
Melville C. Parkhurst. ist Lt., John H. Dusseault. 2d Lt., Edwin Mills. 
2d Lt., George A. IJodge. 



iio scK]/A'A'i7/J./:. I'.isj- ,ix/> /'y,'/:.s7:.v/: 

Coinpany 11. 5th Ke^nnicnt. .Septeinher uj. i'^''>2. to July 2. i.s<"i3. Cap- 
tain, Henjamin F. Tarkcr. i st Lt., Walter C llailey. jcl l.t.. John Har- 
rintiton. 

Company 15, 5th Regiment. July 25. 1S64. to Nov. \<>, 1S64. Captain, 
lohn \. Coffin. 1st Lt., Charles T. Robinson. 2d Lt., Cranville \\'. Daniels. 

I'he service of these various companies at the front calls for special 
mention. 

Company I. Fiith Rkcimkni. -'J'iirkk .Monkms. 

The Somerville Light Infantry, Company I, under command of Cap- 
tain Ikastow, left lioston for Washington on Sunday, April 21, 1S61, and 
arriving there, was quartered with the Regiment in the Treasury Ikiilding ; 
after which it was ordered to .Mexandria, to join the command of General 
Mansfield. On June 14. it was reviewed by President Lincoln and Cabinet, 
and on July 16, ordered forward to Centreville. On the 21st it had its first 
experience in battle at the memorable action of Bull Run, in which engage- 
ment the Somerville Light Lifantry faithfully sustained its part and the 
honor of the Town. This battle was fought after the Regiment's time of 
service had expired. 

Somerville lost one man in the action, Edward L. Hannaford, and an- 
other, William F. Moore, died at Washington of disease. 

CoMTA-W 1^., I'lriir Rkoimkni'. — Nine Moxihs. 

As before stated, the i' ifth Regiment, in its nine months' campaign, left 
Boston on October 22, 1862, and, after a five days" voyage, arrived at New 
Berne, X. C, on the 27th. Here it was attached to the brigade commanded 
by Colonel Horace C Lee of the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Regiment, 
the department being under command of Major-General Foster. 

Fven before its muskets had arrived, the Regiment received orders to 
be in readiness for an expedition, and on ( )ctober 30 embarked for Wash- 
ington, X. C, whence, with other forces, it marched for Williamston. .\fter 
some skirmishing, nothing else important transpiring, it returned to camp, 
Xovember 13, having marched one hundred and sixty miles. In I )ecember it 
took part in the expedition to Goldsboro, forming the left of the column. 
The object of the movement was the destruction of the Weldon Railroad. 
On the 14th it was attacked by the enemy, whom it repulsed and drove 
in great disorder towards Kinston. On the 16th occurred the battle 
of Whitehall, near which place the army had bivouacked, in which the 
Union forces were again victorious. ( )n the 17th the column was again in 
motion, and reached the railroad about noon. The railroad bridge over the 
Xeuse River was soon destroyed, and wires cut. which work was accom- 
plished under fire of the enemy. 

The destruction completed, the troops returned, the Fifth Regiment 
acting as rear guard " supporting battery," and encountering and repulsing 
repeated attacks of the Confederates, and reaching camp on December 31. 

After various marches and reconnoissances. on Mav 22, the Cnion for- 



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SOMERl'/LLi:, PAST AND PRESENT. II3 

ces appeared before the strong works of the rebels at Moseley Creek previ- 
ously reconnoitred by the Regiment, and which by a simultaneous attack 
in front and rear were soon captured, with two hundred prisoners and five 
hundred stand of arms, together with horses, wagons and ammunition. 

The remaining service was principally picket and similar duty. The 
Regiment was highly complimented by (reneral Foster for its faithful ser- 
vice. It returned to Boston lune 26. and was mustered out at Wenham on 
July 2. 

Company B, Fiith Reciiment. — One Hundred Days. 

( )n July 25, 1.S64, the Fifth was for the third time mustered into the ser- 
vice, and on the 2Sth, under Colonel George H. I'eirson. again left for the 
held. Arriving at Baltimore, they went into camp at Manikin's Wood. 
Their service lasted one hundred days, the term of their enlistment, during 
which lime they did garrison duty at Forts McHenry and Marshall in Bal- 
timore, and guard duty at the " Lazarette Magazine," and in charge of 
prisoners. They arrived home November 7, 1S65, and were mustered out 
November 16. 

Company F, Thfrty-Xinih Regiment. — Three Years. 

'J'he " Somerville Guard," under command of Captain Frederick R. 
Kinsle\ , Company F, Thirty-ninth Regiment, which was mustered into ser. 
vice August 12, 1S62, tirst went into camp at Lynnfield, and then at Boxford, 
Massachusetts. From the latter place, on September 6, it left for Washing- 
ton, arriving on the Nth. ( )n the 9th. the Regiment was ordered to " Camp 
Chase," across Long Bridge. From this time until the next July, it formed 
part of the force guarding the line of the Potomac, and the City of Wash- 
ington and other important points in that department. ( )n the 9th of July, 
1863, it was ordered to Harper's Ferry, and, on arriving, marched at once 
to Maryland Heights. ( )n the 13th, it joined the Army of the Potomac, 
forming a part of the Second Division, First Army Corps. From this time 
the Regiment was under constant marching orders, guarding positions, sup- 
porting cavalry and kindred service, until November 27. when it confronted 
the eneni}' at Mine Run. 

( )n the 28th, Companies E and C were deployed as skirmishers, cover- 
ing the front of the brigade during the engagement. There they remained 
in line of battle until December i, when the Union Army retreated. No 
movement of importance occurred after this until May, 1864, at which time 
the Regiment took part in the campaign of the Wilderness, where on the 
5th, 6th and 8th, it had engagements at Brock's Pike and Laurel Hill, driv- 
ing in the enemy's cavalry and battery, but. finally meeting with superior 
numbers posted behind breastworks, the Regiment was forced to fall 
back. On the loth, it was again in the front under heavy infantry and 
artillery fire, and here Lieutenant Edwin Mills of the Somerville Company 
was among the wounded. 

The Regiment soon after marched to Spottsylvania. and on the 26th, to 



114 soMi:R\'ii.i.i:. r.isT .\\n i'ri:si:xt. . 

Ik'thescla (hurcli, wht-re, as skirmishers, it renuiiiied almost conlinuall}- cn- 
gaijed until June 5. On that night it quietly withdrew. After various marches 
it arrived at Petersburg on July iC). remaining exposed much of the time to 
the tire of artillery and sharpshooters in its vicinity, until .August 1 S. when 
it joined the expedition against the Weldon Railroad, and immediately en- 
gaged the enemy, the action being continued on the ii;lh. in this battle, 
Colonel Peirson was dangerously wounded. Captain Fred. R. Kinsley taken 
prisoner, and Lieutenant J. H. I )usseault wounded, both the latter of Com- 
pany " E " (Somerville). 

The loss of the Regiment in these two days was eleven killed, thirty-two 
wounded and two huntlred and forty-five missing. After many vicissitudes, 
skirmishes and arduous niarche.s. the Regiment, on December 7, found it- 
self again near the \\'eldon Railroad as skirmishers and in action with the 
enemy, after which, and destroying the railroad by burning its ties and 
bending its rails, the Regiment was ordered to cover the rear of the army 
(iK)w falling back), which was greatly annoyed by the enemy's cavalry. 

The casualties of the Regiment during 1X^)4 were thirty-five killed, one 
hundred and ninetj'-one woiuided, and two iuuulred and eighty-nine missing 
and prisoners. 

On February 6, 1865, the Regiment held the right of the line in the ad- 
vance at Dabney's Mills, where the enemy's works, though finally taken, had 
to be abandoned by the captors for want of support. The assault was re- 
newed on the 7th, but was again unsuccessful. 

On the 10th the Regiment broke camp and went into winter quarters 
near Hatcher's Run. 

In .March the spring campaign opened, and on the 31st a move was 
made to Gravelly Run, where the enemy in strong force opened the attack, 
pushing back the 39th, which had been hurriedly dej^loyed as skirmishers, 
and which left many dead and wounded on the field. Later, upon the arrival 
of reinforcements, the lost ground was regained. In this action Lieutenant- 
Colonel Tremlett was mortally wounded, and Somerville lost her heroic son. 
Captain Willard C. Kinsley, who was wounded, and died the next morning. 
Speaking of him, the official account of the battle says, '• 'J'he Regiment lost 
one of its most popular and loved officers, as well as one of its best soldiers." 

On the next day, April i, the Corps united with Sheridan's Cavalry at 
Five Forks, the Regiment taking part in the charge and victory of that day. 
It occupied a position near the center of the line, and the report says, 
"This battle of Five Forks was the inost successful one that the Regiment 
was ever engaged in. Almost the entire force opposed to us was captured, 
and their rout was complete." 

By the 9th of April, the 39th was at Appomattox Court House, where 
soon after its arrival " all hostilities suddenly ceased, and later in the day, 
the entire army opposed to us surrendered." 

On May 1, the Regiment began its march to Washington. It was now 
under the command of Major F'. R. Kinsley, the former Captain of Com- 
pany K (Somerville Guard), who, from the previous August until recently. 




A. B. GOOKlN. 



-Q^. 'V 




Frederick M. Stodder. 



S0MERJ7I.LE, PAST AND PRESENT. 



had been a prisoner in the hands of the Confederates. It arrived at Arling- 
ton Heights on May 12, and took part in the "Grand Review," at Washing- 
ton, on May 22. On June 2, it was mustered out of the L'nited States 
service, and arriving in Massachusetts went into camp at Readville, where 
soon after it was paid off, and returned home. 

NuMiiKR OF Men ix thk War. 

During the war. Somerville, according to Captain Cunningham, its 
recruiting agent, enlisted one thousand four hundred and eighty-live men, 
or one hundred and forty-seven more than were called for, of whom ninety- 
eight were killed or died in the service, and about two hundred and iifty 
were wounded, and many taken prisoners. 

Besides the regular organizations whose services, as Somerville com- 
panies, have been sketched, there were hundreds of others in the various 
regiments of this and other States, and in the regular army and the navy, 
under Butler, Banks, Grant, Farragut and other commanders. Their per- 
sonal services and suiferings in the war. though most worthy of record, 
cannot, in the space allowed, be here written. 

Thk Mar rvR Roll. 
Tlie following is the Roll of those who gave their lives for the Union. 

Killeil in Battle or Died of Jl'o/nitts. 



August Benz, 
Edward E. Brackett, 
William Berry, 
Martin pjradburn, 
William Connellon, 
Frank E. Doherty, 
Michael Driscoll, 
John 1 )ucey, 
Samuel ( ). Felker, 
Frederick A. Galletly. 
Eugene B. Hadley. 
Edward F. Hannaford. 
William M. Herbon, 
Nathaniel Hazeltine. 
Caleb Howard. 



Edmund H. Kendall. 
David Kendrick, 
Willard C. Kinsley. 
Edward P. Light, 
Edward McDonald, 
Patrick McCarty, 
William McDonald. 
H. McGlone, 
J. McGuire, 
Owen Mclntire, 
James McLaughlin. 
Corporal (?) Moran, 
James Millen. 
James Moran. 
N. Fletcher Nelson, 



Anton Otto, 
Jeremiah T. Paine, 
W^illiam D. Palmer, 
William IMant, 
Robert Powers, 
Fred. G. Pruden, 
William Reeves, 
William P. Ruggles, 
John H. Rafferty, 
John Van De Sande, 
C. C. Walden, 
John F. Waldon, 
William \\. Wardell, 
Nathan W. Wilson. 



George W. Ayres. 
Henry Ashton, 
Jonathan Atkinson, 
Luther V. Bell, 
William H. Bartlett 
William PJlackwell. 



Dit'it in Hospital, Camp, or Prison. 

Charles L. Carter, David Gorham, 

Edwin D. Cate, George H. Hatch, 

Michael Clifford, Patrick Hayes, 

John W. Coffee, Moses Hazeltine, 

Norman Davis, George Hiscock, 



Frederick A. Glines, 



fohn Holland. 



llS SOMERl/I.LE. IWST AXn rRESKXT. 

lohn K. Horton, Francis Mc(Juade. Sumner 1'. Rollins, 

Henry K. Howe, Charles M. Miller, Patrick Sheridan, 

Richard |. Hyde, William F. Moore, William K. Spurr, 

Charles (I. Jones, Henry Mc\ey, Alonzo W. Temple, 

F. !•■. Kenniston, Thomas Neville, Frank W. Thompson, 

I. W. Fangley, John OTJrien, Samuel (i. Tompkins, 

Alvin C;. Lovejoy, Francis J. Oliver, William H. Tilackwell, 

Washington Lovett. Charles H. Perry, John S. \an Clulf. 

Flias Manning, Albert W. Thillips. Isaac C. Whittemore, 

Louis Mathi, 'Timothy H. Titman, Joseph W. Whitmore, 

Edward McDonald, Leonard F. Purin«;ton, Charles Young. 

Missing. 
lames Catferty, John S. Roberts, Albert F. Mitchell. 

This list may not be complete, and is probably otherwise imperfect, 
as the records are meagre. 

In the years to come, when the sorrow^s of the widow and orphan are 
forgotten, Somerville will still recall with, perhaps, increasing pride, the 
services of her soldiers in the Cnion .Vrmy in the Civil War. Their memory 
deserves a more lasting tribute than tradition, and the city has well begun 
upon the work of their record, which, under the City Clerk, has already made 
some progress. It is a work in which every citizen should be interested, 
and to which all should give every possible aid as the object, when attained 
— the preservation of the story of the personal services of each Somerville 
soldier — must receive the hearty approval of all, whose friends took part 
in the great struggle. 



ClTAl'TRR X. 
'Thf. Town i-kom iSOi ro 1872. 

Lmi'Rovkmknt ok 1Ii(;iiwav.s. — CiAS Intkodih kd. — Watkk Suiti.v. — Sewers. — 
(iREAT Improvements. — Ckntral Hill Park. — Horse Railroaus. — The Town- 
Farm. — Attempts TO Divide the Town. — Ciiv Chaktkr and Hall. — 1'iksi' 
City Klecpion. 

1 1 K.IIWAVS. 

NoTwriHSTAxniNG the continuous and unusual demands of the four 
years' war, the regular business of the town was not neglected. Tublic im- 
provements and private enterprises were inaugurated, and liie industries of 
peace thrived as well as those of war. 

The poinilation increased during this period from 8,025 in 1 s6o, to '■).y:)2, 
in 1S65, and in 1.S70 it numbered 14,693. With this increase came calls for 
new roads and for improvement of the old ones, and considering the times, 
the\ were met with reasonable liberality. 

The work accomplished during this period was too extensive for more 
than general notice here. Streets were graded and macadamized, brick 



SOMERVILLE. PAST AX D PRESENT. 119 

sidewalks built, edgestones set, gutters paved, road-bridges rebuilt, streets 
watered and lighted, and new ways laid out — fresh strands in the net\vorl< 
of thoroughfares. In fact, then began the transition from poor to fair or 
good roads. 

Among the principal improvements during these eleven years, were the 
building of College avenue, Holland street. Highland avenue to Davis 
square, Prescott and Putnam streets, the westerly part of Pearl street, the 
easterly portion of Summer street, and the widening and grading of Walnut 
and School streets, and of Willow avenue. 

In 1862 the long neglected work of lowering, widening and paving the 
Washington street roadway, under the Lowell railroad, was finished ; the 
bridge and tracks, at the same time, being raised. This low spot formerly 
connected by an underground drain with Miller's river; but in a storm 
which occurred on P^ebruary 22, 1.S60, this old drain was either too small or 
became choked, and the place filled with water, into which an unfortunate 
hack was driven, nearly drowning its occupants, and resulting, later, in 
heavy damages against the town and railroad. 

Some of the highway enterprises proposed during the later years of the 
town did not meet with the hearty co-operation of its officers. Among 
these were the three new avenues ordered by the county commissioners, 
and running from Medford into Somerville. College avenue, laid out in 
1S60, and built in 1S61. and Boston and Middlesex avenues, ordered or de- 
cided on in I S7 1 . These measures were strenuously, though unsuccessfully, 
opposed by the selectmen. ( )f College avenue, they say that they believe 
•' that neither the town, nor the public, require the laying out of such a 
street, but that it was for private purposes and private speculation.'' Boston 
and Middlesex avenues each crossed Mystic river, and bridges were re- 
quired. Boston avenue commencing at West Medford, crossed the river at 
the site of the old Middlesex canal bridge, the old stone piers and abutment 
being used for the new bridge. The avenue ended at College avenue, but 
has more recently been extended to Broadway. 

Middlesex avenue was the extension of a highway from Stoneham and 
Maiden, across the Wellington farm in Medford, and over the Mystic river 
and Ten Hills farm to Mystic avenue in Somerville. This was first asked 
for in 1869. The selectmen voted to oppose this " road to Mystic avenue, 
or at any other point in Somerville, not feeling that benefits equal to the 
large expense to be incurred could ever be derived by the Town." 

An act empowering the county commissioners to lay out this highway 
was passed in 1869, and though decided on in 1871, was not built until two 
years later. 

These avenues, laid out a cjuarter of a century ago, have yet very few 
buildings or improvements, and so far have principally benefited neighbor- 
ing towns. 

The laying out of Mystic avenue (Medford turnpike) as a public way 
also encountered the opposition of the town, and every eftort possible was 
made to prevent it, including employment of counsel and appeal to the 




Robert Duddy. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST AXD FRESllXr. 121 

legislature, as the avenue up to this time had been propert}- of the Medford 
Turnpike corporation, who wished to abandon it and throw the burden of 
its maintenance on the towns, which in iSA; they accomplished, since 
which time it has been a county highway. 

(;as. 

Under authority of acts of the legislature passed in iS53,gas was intro- 
duced into the town by the Charlestown Gas Company and b)- the Cam- 
bridge Gas Company, the dividing line between the territory within which 
each company could lay its pipes being the Lowell railroad. It was ten 
years later before street lighting became general. In 1X63 the town voted 
to pay the expense of lighting such street-lamps as the abutters should 
furnish at their own expense, lender this vote ninety-two lamp-posts and 
lamps were put up. This was the commencement of our system of street 
lighting. By 1S71 the number of lamps had increased to two hundred and 
thirty-four. 

Water Si'pi'Lv. 

The laying of the Charlestown water-main from Walnut Hill reservoir 
through the town opened the way for a water-supph- for Somerville which 
was authorized by legislative enactments in 1866 and in 1868, and negotia- 
tions with Charlestown entered into, which resulted in a contract with that 
city. I'his contract, though not entirely satisfactory in its terms, secured 
to Somerville its present supply. An experienced engineer, Mr. Roberdeau 
Buchanan, was engaged and a pipe system for the town planned, and before 
the close of the year some two miles or more of pipe were laid. 

'I'he Charlestown act of 1861 gave authority for supplying water to 
hydrants in Somerville, and meanwhile many were set. In 1866 the first 
steam fire-engine was purchased replacing the old " Somerville One," which, 
like its predecessor, "Mystic Six," was stored for a while and then sold. 

Sewers. 

With the introduction of water came the demand for sewers. Before 
the war there were no public sewers in the town. There were one or two 
private drains in East Somerville, running across lots, and some others 
crudely built with brick invert and stone covering, in ( )ak and other private 
streets west of Prospect. 

The first public sewer was built in Marshall street in 1867, Messrs. 
Winning and (xordon being the contractors; the work cost about two thou- 
sand dollars. 

In 1868, sewers were laid in three different sections of the town ; over 
a mile in all. The first was the Linw^ood street, with laterals in Fitchburg 
and Poplar streets; its outlet was into Miller's river. The second ran from 
the southerly end of Bow^ street, across Union square to the creek in Web- 
ster avenue, and the third extended from Summer street, dow'n Harvard, 
Beech and Spring streets, across Somerville avenue and through Kent street 



122 Si)Mi:R\JLLi:, r.lST .LVD /'A'JiSJiXr. 

t<i the railroad ditch. The three sections costing nine thousand eii,dit hun- 
dred and sixty-four dollars. 

Calls for sewers now became frequent, and in 1S69 a j^eneral survey 
and plan was ordered, for a sewer system, in conformity to which future 
sewers were to be constructed, it was also recommended that "Some 
order should be taken, lookin,y^ to the construction of trunk sewers." The 
survey and plan, thus outlined, were commenced but never com])leted. 
The want of proper outlets and the necessity for strict economy were serious 
obstacles. 

In 1S69, ^,^)XC) feet of new sewers were laid, and 2,07s feet of private 
sewers purchased by the town, at a cost in all, of about > 12,000. 

In 1S70 and 1.S71 a large number of sewers were built. In 1870, 18,3X0 
feet, costing 549.304 ; and in 1 87 1 . 11 .937 feet, costing 524,042. The principal 
were as follows: in Elm and Milk streets from Cherry to Prospect. In 
Medford street from the Fitchburg railroad to Grand junction railroad. In 
Mystic avenue from the Maine railroad northerly. In Perkins and Mount 
Pleasant streets and iiroadway. In Broadway from Marshall street and 
across the present park, to the creek beyond Mystic avenue. In Broadway 
from Broadwa\- park, to Cross street, and in Cross street to a culvert near 
Pearl. In Lincoln, Arlington and Franklin streets; in Putnam and Pres- 
cott streets; and in Summer and Pow streets from School to Walnut street. 
In Glen and Brooks streets. In Otis street, in \'inal avenue and in School 
street. The difficult problem in all the foregoing work was that of an out- 
let. Every sewer, up to this time, emptied into some ditch or water-course, 
and many then built still continue to do so. 

()iHKK Town M.\rrKRs. 

The years 1870 and 1871 were l:)usy ones for the town government. 
Besides extensive sewer and highway constructions, many other prominent 
matters claimed consideration ; among the more important were the organ- 
ization of a police force, the purchase of the Central Hill park, the build- 
ing of the new engine-house thereon, and stables on the town farm, all in 
1870. The consideration of the proposed Middlesex and Boston avenue 
bridges, ordered by the county over Mystic river, the erection of a new high 
school l)uilcling in 1871, the enforcement of the litjuor law, the defense of 
the town against claims, and damage suits. The ])reparation of the city 
charter, and the consequent legislation. The division of the proposed city 
into wards, and the arrangements necessary for the election of city officers. 

CkXIRAI. Hill, I'AkK. 

One of the most important of the foregoing was the purchase of the 
present Central Hill park land in 1870. This land formerly belonged to 
Jacob Sleeper of Boston. It cost the town about thirty-eight thousand 
dollars. It was what was known in 178S as one of the " Church lots," being 
then the property of the '• First Church of Charlestown." This purchase 
did not meet the entire apjiroval of the citizens, many thinking that Pros- 



»»* 



1 



#'^- 



,^ iPt| 



John Andrews. 




^ 



^ /. 





George W. Ireland. 



SOMKRl'/LLIi, /'AST . LV/ > /'K/iSENT. I 25 

pect hill, with its extensive views and hallowed memories, was a more appro- 
priate location for public grounds and buildings, and thit it could have 
been bought at a smaller price ; concerning it, the selectmen say : " This 
purchase definitely settled the question of a recognized center. This ques-,^ 
tion being no longer in dispute, plans for the future development of the 
town may be made with especial reference to this fact." This was the 
first of Somerville parks, and the only one before it became a city. 

Horse Railroads. 

In 1.S61 a survey was made for a proposed street railway from Union 
square through Somerville avenue to East Cambridge, and thence to Sud- 
bury street in Ijoston. 

The originator of this project was (xcneral William L. Burt, afterward 
postmaster of Boston. 

The work was finished in 1S64, and was the first railway in Somerville, 
Inult in the middle of the street. A location was granted for another road 
through Franklin and Pearl streets, but it was never built. 

The inconvenience of railroad tracks at the sides of the streets was 
soon recognized, and efforts made for their removal to the center, opposed 
and delayed of course by the companies ; but in 1S71 this change was made 
in Somerville avenue and Kim street, from Union square to Cherry street, 
at a cost to the town of about ,•>! 1,000 ; and by 1875 all others had been re- 
moved from side to center. 

T(jwN Farm. 

The present " town farm " was originally purchased for a cemetery, but 
being "swampy and wet" it was abandoned for that use. In 1863 it was 
put up at auction, but " the bids not coming up to the views of the board, it 
was not sold." The farm "from long neglect had become almost a barren 
waste," in 1864, at an expense of about eight hundred dollars, the brush 
and stone were removed from it and the land thoroughly tile-drained. In 
1S71 a "stable" and "hay barn " "separated by a brick wall and fire-proof 
door " were built on the estate, with stalls for twenty horses, and also a 
"neat and convenient double tenement for the use of the men." 

A'i'TEMPTS TO Divide the Town. 

t 
In 1865 an attempt was made to annex a portion of West Somerville to 
Cambridge. The valuation of this tract was about one hundred thousand 
dollars. The matter came before the legislature, was successfully opposed 
by the selectmen, and the petitioners given leave to withdraw. The ground 
of complaint was the want of school accommodations, which the school 
committee also recognized, and which brought the suggestion from the 
selectmen, that "now it is for the town to decide whether they will give the 
required accommodations, and thereby prevent another petition of like 
nature from our townsmen." l!ut the petitions were not prevented; for in 
1S68 two more were presented to the General Court, asking a division of 
the town, which were again defeated. 



i2n soMERiii.Li:. r.is]- .ixn I'Ri-.siixr. 

CiiN Char IKK anh 1 1 all. 

It was probalily about this time tliat the idea of a city charter was first 
entertained, a census, this year, being taken, showinj^ the population of the 
town to be 12.535. "'f 'nor^i than requisite for a city, and the number of 
houses. 1,933. 

In 1S71 the new iiigli schoolhouse was built, and soon after, the present 
city hall (the first high school) vacated. Anticipating this want, the select- 
men in their report say that "when the present building is vacated, we re- 
commend its removal to a more suitable location on the town land, near 
where it now stands ; and that its external architecture be modernized, by 
adding a few modest ornaments, so that the general appearance of this 
building shall moderately correspond with the buildings erected on this 
land,'' and further suggest that a "suitable lock up" be built in it. and 
offices for the selectmen and other ofiicials ; thereby " deferring for many 
years the necessity of building a town house or city hall." The moderniz- 
ing of its "external architecture," after a lapse of twenty-live years, is now 
being accomplished. 

FiRsr C'nv Ei.i-x riox. 

On April 14, 1S71. the act establishing the city of Somerville was ap- 
proved and accepted by the voters at a town meeting held for that purpose 
on April 27. ( )n December 4 the first city election occurred, resulting in 
the choice of (ieorge O. J>rastow as mayor, and of a board of aldermen and 
councilmen whose names are given in the history of the city government in 
this \olume. 

In this historical relation of the town, and further on of the city, mention 
of schools, churches and other institutions, and of the town and city de- 
partment are purposely curtailed or omitted, as they are treated of specially 
in succeeding chapters of this book. 



CHAriiOk Xl. 

SoMKR\Il.LI'; AS A C'l IV. 

* 

.Ai-i'KKCiATiON IN Value UK Kkai, Ksiaik. — (Ikf.ai Inckeasi; ok IIoisks. — Steam 
Railroads. — Extk.nsion ok Stkkkt Kam.wavs. — Wkst Knd Raiiavav. — Widen- 
ing OF SoMEKVII.LE AVENUEAND BkoADWAV. — TlIE UkoADWAV PaKK. TlIK 

Miller'.s Rivkr Xkisanck. — .Annexation to J]oston Discusskd. — I'akks and 
Boulevards. — ^Tkits Coi.i.e(;e. — Old Landmarks. 

I\ January, IS72, the new city government was duly installed and or- 
ganized. Their names are mentioned in the next chapter. The ofiicials 
placed in charge of the several departments were the following : — 

City Clerk. Charles E. Oilman: City Treasurer and C'oUector. Aaron 
.Sargent: City Solicitor. Selwin /. liowman : City Kngineer. Charles 1 ). 




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SOMERl'ILLK, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 29 

Elliot ; City Physician, \\illiam \\'. Dow ; Clerk of Council, Solomon Davis ; 
City Messenger. Jairus Mann: Chief of Police, Melville C. Parkhurst ; 
SuiDerintendent of Streets, Franklin Henderson; Chief of Fire Department, 
James R. Hopkins; Assessors, John C. Magoun, Sabin M. Smith, Thomas 
Cunningham ; Superintendent of Schools, Joshua H. Davis. 

RkAI. ESTAIE. 

The building of horse-railroads and introduction of water, sewers and 
gas gave a wonderful impetus to real estate transactions, which even the 
financial depression occurring a few years later failed to check. The 
erection of Masonic Block in L^nion square by Thomas Cunningham, 
Robert A. Vinal, C. S. Lincoln and Philip Eberle was the precursor of im- 
provements. In 1.S70 Pythian Block was built, followed soon by Warren 
Block, Odd Fellows Block, Hill Building, and the block adjacent on Somer- 
ville avenue, all of which were erected by Ira Hill, who was associated in 
some of these enterprises with Col. Elijah Walker, Maj. George R. Abbott 
and Charles E. Lyon. Mr. Hill alone, or with his associates, laid out and 
built over several tracts of land in the years from 1870 to 1S74. Among 
these were the Warren and Columbus avenue districts, the territory east of 
Walnut street between Boston street and Highland avenue, including the 
Grandview, Pleasant and Siunmit avenue estates, and large tracts in West 
Somerville on Holland and Elm streets, through which they laid out Wal- 
lace, Chandler, Winter and other streets. The energy of Mr. Hill in devel- 
oping real estate has seldom been surpassed in the town or city. 

Some sections of the city developed slowly and continuously, as East 
.Somerville, and Spring and Central Hills, which were among the first sec- 
tions lotted for the market, the latter two by the enterprise of George ( ). 
Brastow, who was the pioneer in the development of those sections, fifty 
years ago. Other parts of the city grew rapidly, as Union, Davis and Gil- 
man squares and their vicinities. 

Among other earlier real estate ventures while Somerville was a town 
may be mentioned the lotting and building up of the property between 
Webster avenue and Prospect street, and west of that street, the C^ak and 
Houghton street district, the owners being Francis and iVmory Houghton, 
the projectors of the Glass Works. Another section opened up by Mr. 
Amory Houghton was the land between Somerville avenue and the Fitch- 
burg railroad, west of F)ane street to Park street. The Dane, Hudson and 
Vine streets territory, and the Joseph Clark estate on Newton, Clark and 
other streets were also put on the market before the war. 

During the war real estate languished, but revived a few years after, so 
that the period from 1.S69 to 1.S75 saw many old estates laid out and built 
over. Among these were the Putnam, Prescott and School streets territory, 
formerly the Jotham Johnson estate ; the \'inal avenue, Quincy and Church 
streets territory, formerly the property of Robert Vinal ; property on I^ros- 
pect Hill, built over and marketed by Maj. Granville W. Daniels; the 
Xewton street, Concord avenue and Springfield street district, owned by 



130 soMi'.Riii.i.i:. r.isi- .wn rRi.si-.xr. 

John ()"l!rifn, and the Clarendon Hill tenitor\ 1)\ John \\ . \inal and 
others. 

Then came another period of business and real estate- dej^ression. 
which lasted till about iSSo. The estates that have been laid out and put 
upon the market since that time are numerous, the lar<i;^er ones being the 
Stickney estate on IJroadway and School street, the Oliver Tufts property 
between School and Central streets, the (leorge W. Ireland estate on School 
and Summer streets, the Hawkins (or Lake) properties on Somerville ave- 
nue and Washington street: part of Mrs. M. P. Lowe's estate on Summer 
street, the R. P. Iknton land on Avon and Berkeley streets, the W'yatt 
(brick-yardi land on Washington street, the Osgood Dane property on 
Somerville avenue and Granite street, the A. W. Tufts et al. property on 
Pearl street, the John Runey estate on Cross street, the Wheeler estate 
(•'()x pasture"') in East Somerville, the Harrington and Prine land on 
Spring Hill, the Russell estate on Elm street, the Charles Robinson prop- 
erty on Central and Medford streets, the Trull estate on Oxford street, the 
"Clark and Iknnett land"' on Central and (iibbens streets, the J. C. Ayer 
estate on Highland avenue, the Nathan Tufts (Powder House) property, 
the J. ^L Shute estates on Somerville avenue, Central and Cambria streets 
and Westwood road, the Stearns estate (i'olly Swamp) north of Highland 
avenue, the lands on the northerly slope of Spring Hill, laid out originally 
by R. H. Conwell, and the adjacent estate of J. 1). Prindle. Most of the 
foregoing have been built up within the last ten or fifteen years, and gener- 
ally with a class of houses credital)le to the builders and the city. 

SlEAM RaII, ROADS. 

The principal factor in the unprecedented growth of West Somerville 
was the building of the Lexington and Arlington railroad. The Lexington 
railroad formerly branched from the Fitchburg not far from Fresh Pond, 
but in 1.S70 its route east of Alewife Brook was changed so as to connect 
with the Lowell railroad at Somerville Junction. Several years later the 
Massachusetts Central obtained its location over the Lowell and part of 
this new Lexington branch, which, meanwhile, had been extended to Con- 
cord. With the exception of the " Mystic river "" freight track across the 
Asylum grounds, these tw'o steam railroads were the only permanent ones 
built in Somerville since the war. 

A railroad branching from the Poston \- Maine across the Ten Hills 
farm, thence to Winchester and beyond was projected and partially graded 
and. afterwards abandoned. It was known as the '" Mystic \'alley Railroad." 

Si KKKI R \ll,UOAI)>. 

An extension of the Broadway tracks over Winter Hill to Medford \ia 
W\\x\ street was early made. It was, like the others, a side track T-rail 
road, and was run by the Charlestown cV' Medford Railroad ("ompany. The 
selectmen ordered it to the center, but the company neglecting or refusing. 




Ezra D. Souther. 




ll ^^ 




Irving L. Russell. 



SOMERl'/LLE, PAST AND I'RHSENT. 133 

its location in Main street was revoked. In 1.SS4 the Middlesex Company 
reopened this line, the change to the center of the street meanwhile having 
been made. 

In iSSi the Charles River Street Railway was organized, and soon it 
laid tracks in Summer and Bow streets and through Union square and 
Webster avenue to Cambridge street, and others in Newton, Springfield 
and Beacon streets. It was built as an opposition to the Cambridge, whose 
tracks its charter gave it the right to use from Cambridge to Boston. It 
was a popular line, but not being a financial success, in 1.SS6 it was consoli- 
dated with the Cambridge. The same year the Middlesex, which leased or 
ran several of the other Somerville roads, combined with the Highland (a 
South Boston line which ran in competition with the Metropolitan), taking 
the name IJoston Consolidated. Meanwhile the Kim street tracks had been 
extended up Holland street to l')roadway. 

In 1886 two rival companies for Somerville patronage, the Cambridge 
and the Consolidated, petitioned for locations in Cross and Medford streets 
and Highland avenue to Davis square, and in Pearl and Medford streets to 
Central street. The contest for these locations was vigorous but the Con- 
solidated won, and by the close of iSS; had laid tracks in most of these 

streets. 

Wesi' End Railway. 

"The West End Street Railway Company" was the outgrowth of the 
West End Land Company, formed by Mr. Henry M. Whitney and others for 
the development of real estate along Beacon street in Boston and Brookline 
by making that thoroughfare a broad boulevard. To ensure success in this 
enterprise a charter was procured for a " West End Street Railway " over 
the proposed boulevard location. The opposition to this line l^y other 
street railways resulted in the West End Railway acquiring controlling in- 
terest in all the other roads excepting the Lynn «S: Boston, and obtaining 
legislation by which they were all consolidated under the management of the 
West End, which was finally consummated on November 1 1, 1887. 

In or about 1889 the overhead electric system of propulsion was intro- 
duced, after a careful examination had been made by Mr. Whitney of its 
workings in Richmond, Va. It was first applied on the Beacon street and 
Brookline routes and soon became general. Within a few years the A\'est 
End road has made many improvements in the Somerville service, among 
which may be mentioned the increased number of trips, especially on the 
West Somerville line, the extension of that line to Alewife Brook, and of 
the Medford street line to Magoun square, the recent opening of the new 
line from Highland avenue via Medford street and Somerville avenue to 
Boston, together with improved road-bed, more easy riding cars, and a new 
and liberal system of transfers. 

Widening of Somekville Avenue and Broadway. 

The most important highway improvements since 1872 have probably 
been the widening of Somerville avenue, and paving it, and the adjacent 



I U SOMERIII.LE, I'AST AXD I'RI'.Sl'.XT. 

thoroughfares, and the widening of 15road\vay. Somerville avenue was 
formerly tifty feet in width, but in 1S73 the County Commissioners hiid it 
out anew seventy-five feet wide from Kast Cambridge to Cnion square and 
se\enty feet from Union square to North Cambridge. The lines were so 
run that only one or two shade trees and very few buildings required re- 
moval. The avenue, over two miles in length, was rebuilt to its new width 
in 1874 at a cost for land damages of Ss6,ooo, and for construction of about 
590,000. 

Broadway was widened and straightened on its northerly side in 1S75, 
making it two hundred feet in width opposite the park. This measure met 
with serious opposition, speculative motives being ascribed to its originators. 
It was built in 1S74 and 1S75, and cost about 575,000 for land and construc- 
tion. 

HkOADW.w I'ark. 

With the liroadway widening w'as associated the laying out and con- 
struction of the Broadway park : they were mutual enterprises. The park 
scheme originated with the owners of Convent hill, Messrs. Klous and Lord. 
It met with fierce opposition, and its effect on local politics was volcanic, 
resulting, in 1S76, in a complete overturn of the city government which in- 
augurated it, and in the election of an anti-park administration. The feeling 
against the park was so strong that, after its opponents came into power, it 
was even proposed to lay it out anew into lots and sell it for building pur- 
poses. 

Most of the ground which was filled over for the park was an old 
marsh, so soft and deep that, in building the fence around it, the posts were 
set on piles and a timber structure on piles built to sustain the curbing of 
the pond, the bottom of which has a double Hooring of lioards covered with 
gravel to prevent the paving sinking into the mud. 

Mii.i.kr's RiVl.R. 

Pre\ious to 1.S55, and perhaps for some years after. Miller's Kiver was a 
comparatively pure stream : it was the fishing and bathing place for that 
section of the town. In 1S55 Mr. John V. Squire purchased a lot of land 
on the East Cambridge side of the river, and built his first establishment, 
its product being one animal daily. .\t first this caused little or no annoy- 
ance, but the phenomenal growth of .Mr. Squire's business, and the building 
shortly after of another similar estal)lishment by .Mr. Charles H. North, 
followed later by other concerns, soon changed the Miller's River district 
into a malodorous and unenviable locality. It was several years, however, 
before complaints became general. The first reference to this nuisance by 
the selectmen was in their report of 1 <S6(; ; and in their report of 1S70 they 
say, "Slaughter Mouses, Pork and Lard factories, are questions to be con- 
sidered. . . . Shall they be erected and maintained on or near our main 
thoroughfares and in the midst of a crowded population .^ . . . Does our 
town become more attracti\e, wholesome, or desirable as a j^lace of resort 
or residence .' " etc. 



A ilfeii^ 



I 



( 




Walter C. Mentzer. 




C/) 

U 






< 



SOMER]'ILLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. I 37 

Cambridge meanwhile had taken action in the matter, and in 1872, bj' 
the combined efforts of the two cities, an act was obtained, supplemented by 
others, providing for the abatement of the nuisance b}' the construction of 
a trunk sewer through Somerville avenue, and the filling of the Miller's 
River basin. This work was begun in 1S73 and completed in 1874; the 
sewer, eight feet in diameter inside, being one of the largest ever built in 
Boston or vicinity. 

Other EvRNrs. 

Among the many events, municipal or otherwise, which have occurred 
since Somerville became a city, may be mentioned the semi-centennial 
celebration of 1892, described elsewhere, the agitation for annexation of 
this city to Boston, the movement for a soldiers' memorial building, and the 
consideration of the subject of more parks and of boulevards. 

Annexation. 

The question of annexation to Boston has been informally considered 
and discussed, on several occasions, by the citizens of Somerville, so far, 
without definite result. In 1893 it received greater attention than ever be- 
fore. The merging into and becoming an important factor in a great 
metropolis has, to some, alluring features, and those who favored it worked 
zealously to accomplish the measure ; but the sentiment of the city has not 
as yet seemed favorable to its achievement. 

Parrs. 

The subject of parks and boulevards has often engrossed the attention 
of the citizens and city government. A movement to preserve that vener- 
able structure, the Powder House, resulted in its gift to the city with a 
small tract around it, by the owners, the purchase of more land, and the 
laying out of the grounds, which were named the " Xathan Tufts Park," in 
honor of the former owner, whose heirs presented it. 

The foundation for another park has been laid by the purchase of the 
" Wyatt pits " estate near Washington street, which probably will ere 
long gladden the denizens of that section with its lawns and walks. In 1891 
the trustees of the estate of j. C Ayer ofl:'ered a tract of land opposite the 
Highlands station, on the Lexington railroad, for park purposes, but in the 
unusual agitations and troubles of that year the matter was laid over by the 
city government and there rests. 

In the spring of this year, 1896, another park was proposed on the 
southerly slope of Prospect Hill to include the revolutionary remains and 
site of the old " citadel." The suggestion was received with much favor, a 
public meeting was held, and an association formed to further the project. 

No more appropriate spot could be found for a memorial building to 
commemorate the services and sufferings of the soldiers of two wars, the 
Revolution and the Rebellion, than this, their old camping-ground. 



13S SOMKKl/fJJ:. J'.ISJ' .L\J) /'A'/:.s7:X/'. 

TfKis C<»i,li:(;k. 

'I'he desirability of a denominational institution of learning had been 
under discussion for some time among leading I'niversalists of America : 
but the first step taken for its realization was by the Rev. Ilioinas j. Saw- 
yer of New \'ork City, now of Somerville. 

In the spring of 1S47 he wrote to the Rev. Hosea Ilallou. 2d, of Med- 
ford, and the Rev. Thomas W'hittemore of Cambridgeport. in relation to it, 
and soon after issued circulars, calling for a convention in New York on 
the iSth of May. At this meeting the need of such an institution was 
fully considered and decided upon, and a board of fifteen trustees elected. 

I'he Rev. Otis A. Skinner was appointed agent to solicit funds, the 
required amount being one hundred thousand dollars, all of which was 
subscribed before the close of i S3 i . 

It was at first proposed to locate the College in New \ork State, in 
either the Hudson or Mohawk \'alleys. Meanwhile Mr. ( )liver Dean, of 
Franklin, Mass.. who afterward founded Dean .Academy, by offer of liberal 
endowment, endeavored to secure its location in that town. 

It was destined to overlook none of the fair valleys of the Hudson, 
Mohawk or Charles, but that of the romantic Mystic ; for the liberal offer of 
Mr. Charles Tufts of Somerville, of twenty acres on \\'alnut Hill, was ac- 
cepted as the most desirable place, from its view, surroundings, and pro.x- 
imity to a great metropolis. Mr. Tufts' gift of twenty acres was soon 
increased to one hundred, supplemented by an additional tract of twenty 
acres from Mr. 'Timothy Cotting of Medford. 

In appreciation of Mr. 'Tufts' generous gift, the College was given his 
name. ( )ther liberal donations were also received : among the most prom- 
inent givers were Sylvanus Packard, 'Thomas A. Goddard, and Doctor 
William j. Walker. .Mr. Packard's gifts and bequests amounted to between 
three and four hundred thousand dollars, and Dr. Walker's to about two 
hundred thousand. 

In 1S52 the charter for the college was obtained. It bears the signatures 
of three historic names : N. P. Hanks, Speaker of the 1 louse : Henry Wilson, 
President of the Senate : and Ceorge S. IJoutwell. (Governor. The incorpo- 
rators were I!. 1>. Muzzey, 'Timothy Cotting, and Richard PYothingham. jr. 
At a meeting of the trustees on July 21. i<S52, Rev. ihomas j. Sawyer was 
unanimously elected president, but he declined the office, and the choice 
then fell on Rev. Hosea Ballou. 2d, who retained the presidency until his 
death in iS^i . 

On July 23, 1.S53, the corner-stone of the first building. " i!alU)U II all," 
was laid. 'The day was beautiful : large awnings surmounted with Ameri- 
can Hags were provided for the ladies, a special train was furnished by the 
Lowell railroad, and between fifteen lumdred and two thousand persons 
were present. Among the exercises was a hymn written by Mrs. X. 'T. 
Munroe, a prominent member of the first L'niversalist Society of Somerville. 
Three students commenced study in 1S54, though the building was not 
completed and formally opened until August 22. 1S55. 



xi" 



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a'- t 







Charles H. Taylor. 



SOMF-R\-ILLK. FAST AND PRESEXT. 141 

llie attendance upon the openino- exercises was large, six hundred or 
more arriving by special train. A banquet was spread for nine hundred 
c.uests, among whom were Mr. and Mrs. Tufts, and hundreds were turned 
away. ' The first toast given was to their most honored guest, " Charles 
Tufts the venerable founder of Tufts College ; may the fruition of his proj- 
ect crl'adden his heart through all his earthly journey," to which the com- 
pany responded by rising and giving cheers. The exercises closed with 
the singing of " From all that dwell below the skies." 

In iS6- Rev. A. A. Miner was inaugurated as the second president 
and success"or of Mr. Kallou, deceased. Dr. Miner held the office twelve 
years, resigning in December, 1S74, and was followed in March, 1875, by 
Rev. Elmer H. Capen, its present president. 

Many other bequests have been made beside the ones mentioned ; those 
from the State, from P. T. P.arnum, and from the estate of the Honorable 
Charles Robinson being the most important. The founder of this institu- 
tion was a citizen of Somerville, as is its president and are most of its pro- 
fessors. Most of its landed possessions are also here, with some of its 
buildings, its campus and its principal avenues of approach; and thus with 
Medford, Somerville shares the renown of this " First Universalist College 

in the World." 

Charles Tufts was a descendant of Peter Tufts, who settled in Maiden 
previous to 163S. Mr. Tufts lived on the northerly side of Washington 
street, west of the Lowell railroad, which his property adjoined : the house 
is still standing. 

( )ld Tandmarks. 

Manv mementos of former days still remain. Our hills are yet here, 
though from most have disappeared all traces of their revolutionary occupa- 
tion Until within a few years remains of old forts and breastworks were 
visible; those on the Central Hill park were dug away in 1S7S regardless of 
protests • the " Fort " on this park is modern, and was built in 1X85. It has 
no historv and is not on the lines of the revolutionary works, although with- 
in their enclosure. The cannon in it were used in the defenses of Washing- 
ton durino- the Civil War. On an estate on the opposite side of Highland 
avenue ofd breastworks were still in existence in iS.;2. where now is an 
apartment house. There was also an old redoubt on the top of a ledgy 
knoll near Mvstic avenue, commanding a long reach of M>stic River; a few 
years earlier 'a little higher up Winter Hill stood another redoubt, since dug 
down in excavating the ledge. ( )n the southerly slope of Prospect Hill 
revolutionary traces still remain, - tradition says they were the old tent-holes 
of 1775, or perhaps of the Burgoyne prisoners. These are all that are now 

left in the city. . 

There are manv houses of a century or more ago, some prerevolution- 
ary among these Air. Blaisdell's on Somerville avenue, where Samuel I uf ts 
lived in 1775, and which was later General Greene's headquarters, and the 
Oliver Tufts house on Sycamore street, the headquarters of General Lee. 



14- somi:r\ii.i.i:. past .wn rRi:si:\r. 

In iSyo ihc city erected tablets on many liistoiic sjiots, they were as 
tollows : — 

On Abner JJIaisdell's liousc. Somerville avenue: "Headquarters of 
IJrij^adier-Oeneral Nathaniel (ireene. in command of the Rhode Island 
Troops durin*^ siege of IJoston. i775-'^>." 

On the ( )liver Tufts house. Sycamore street, now owned b\ Mrs. Flet- 
cher: '• Headquarters of Major-Cleneral Charles Lee, commanding left wing 
of the American Army during the siege of Boston. 1775-f). 

( )n the stonework of the battery. Central Hill park : " This battery was 
erected by the cit_\' in 1SS3, and is within the lines of the ' French Redoubt," 
built by the Revolutionary .\rm\ in 1775, as a part of the besieging lines of 
lloston. — The guns were donated by Congress, and were in service during 
the late Civil War.'" 

( )n Prospect Hill: "On this Hill the Cnion I'lag. with its Thirteen 
Stripes — the Emblem of the I'nited Colonies — First bade Deliance to an 
Knemy. January 1. 1 77A. — Here was the Citadel, the most formidable work 
in the .\merican Lines during the siege of lioston : June 17. 1775, ^^ -NLirch 
17, i77<'>-"" 

On Kim street, corner of Willow avenue : " A sharp tight occurred here, 
between the Patriots and the liritish. April nj. 1775. — This marks Pritish 
Soldiers' graves.' 

On Washington street, corner of Dane street: '"John Woolrich. Indian 
trader, built near this place in iC)3o. — The first white settler on Somerville 
soil." 

At junction Proadway and Main street: '" Paul Revere passed over this 
road, in his midnight ride to Lexington and Concord, April iS, 1775. — Site 
of the 'Winter Hill Fort.' a stronghold built by the American Forces while 
besieging Boston, 1775-6." 

On Washington street opposite Rossmore street: "On this Hillside 
James Miller, Minute-man, aged 65, was slain b\ the Pritish. April i<^, 1775. 
— ' I am too old to run.' " 

Though required impro\ements may sometimes sweep away ancient 
monuments, yet those interested in local history view with regret the often- 
times needless destruction of landmarks which recall so vividly the story of 
the past. 



Nature and circumstance have given Somerville an admirable location. 
( )n the north and west are the classic halls of Tufts and of Harvard ; to the 
south and east, the metropolis and the heights of Punker Hill. In the near 
valley ebbs and Hows the silent Mystic. In their midst is Somerville "on 
her seven hills," each crowned with a historic halo, and from each e.xtends 
a beautiful and widening landscape, thick with villages and cities, fading 
among pleasant hills and valleys in the misty distance. 



^ 0^ 




His Honor Albion a. Perry 




George 1. ViKctM. 



HISTORY OF THE CITY GOVPIRNMENT. 

BY (;i:OK(iK I. VINCENT. 



CHAPTER XII. 

First Bciakd of Oi-i-h'eks. — Siaiisiks of PorrFAiKiN, Valuation, eic. — Abatf:ment 
OF THE Miller's River Xfisanci:. — Mayor Ffki;kk's Administkaiion. — Erection 
OF New Police Bfildim;. — Constrcction of the Broadway Park. — Great 
Sanitary Imi'Ro\'ement.— Mayor Belknap's Administraiion. — Conslruction (jf 
Large Sewers. — Completion of the PruLic Park. — Firvi Contribution to 
the Sinkino Find. — Administration of >L\Yi)R Bruce. — Reconstruction of 
Bridges. — Administration of Mayor Cummings. — Improvements on Central 
Hill. — Erection of New Building for the Puulic Lihrary. 

Sdmervili.e became incorporated as a city under an act of the legisla- 
ture, chapter 1S2 of the Acts of 1.S71, which was approved by the governor, 
April 14, and accepted by the voters of the town, April 27. 1S71. 

As directed by the act of incorporation, the selectmen, on the twenty- 
third of September, 1.S71, divided the town into four wards, which still 
remain unchanged, and, on the eighteenth day of November following, 
issued warrants for the holding of an election, in the several wards, on the 
fourth day of December, of a mayor, eight aldermen, two to be selected 
from each ward, four common councilmen and three members of the school 
committee from each ward, and the necessary ofticers to conduct elections 
in the several wards ; the mayor and aldermen to be voted for at large, and 
the remaining officers by the voters of their respective wards only. 

The election resulted in the choice of the following named officers to 
assume the management of the new city, for the year 1.S72 : — 

Mayor, George ( ). Brastow. Aldermen : William H. Furber and George 
\V. Hadley of ward one: Clark Bennett and Daniel E. Chase of ward two: 
lacob T. Glines and John R. Poor of ward three ; Person Davis and John 
G. Hall of ward four. Common Councilmen : Ezra I). Conant, Edwin A. 
Curtis, Michael Dechan and Charles G. Pope of ward one; John T. Bolton, 
Oren S. Knapp, Patrick Rafferty and George W. Wyatt of ward two : Wal- 
ter S. Barnes, Stewart French, Albert Kenneson and Henry F. Woods of 
ward three; Wesley C. Crane, Thomas H. Lord, Nathaniel Morrison and 
Christopher E. Rymes of ward four. 

George W. Hadley resigned the office of alderman, March 2 ; and March 
13, Horace Haskins was elected to succeed him. 

The city charter, except in the preliminaries above mentioned, did not 

U5 



14'' 



somi:r\h.i.i:. r.isr .\.\n rRi:si:xr. 



take effect until the first Monday, which was also the first day of January. 
1S7::. ( )n that da\, at ten o'clock in the forenoon, the mayor, aldermen 
and common councilmen assembled, in pursuance of notice from the board 
of selectmen, in the " ( >ld Ilij^h School Buildini^;." on Highland avenue, 
which was, soon after, converted into a city hall. The meeting was called 
to order by Austin l^elknap, chairman of the board of selectmen, and after 
prayer by the Reverend Henry 11. Uarber, pastor of the first Congrega- 
tional Society d'nitarian) of Somerville. the oaths of office were adminis- 
tered to the several officers by Columbus Tyler, Esq., justice of the peace. 
The common council then withdrew, and organized by the choice of ( )ren 
S. Knapp as president, and Solomon Davis as clerk, and, immediately after, 
the board of aldermen and the common council, in joint convention, 
elected, as the first city clerk, Charles E. Oilman, who had served as town 
clerk ever since the setting off of Somerville from Charlestown. in 1S42. 

Mayor Brastow, in his first inaugural address, made a statement show- 
ing the growth of the town, the items of which are presented in the follow- 
ing table, as are also the corresponding items for the year iSi/) : - 



?9SS 



1842. 


1871. 


1872. 1896. 


',013 




16.000 55,000 


^'^r.xi 


515.775,000 


^4';, 023, 550 


■4,750 

4 

4 


5260 460 


57,sr,,4,2 

5- <54 
65 220 



Population of Somerville . 
Assessed value of taxable 

property 
Whole amount of money 

raised by taxation . 
Xuml^er of schools 
Number of school teachers 
Whole amount appropriated 

for the support of schools Si.Soo 559,400 5206.000 

Amount of debt, including 

water debt . . . ='3J3i349 51.506.500 

X'aluation of public property ?66o,ooo 52.356.620 

Number of church edifices o 1 1 30 

The most important measure that demanded the attention of the first 
city government, and one of great magnitude, was the abatement of the 
nuisance in that part of Miller's River which extended from the Boston and 
Lowell railroad, at the Cambridge and Somerville line, to the rear of the 
L'nion (ilasshouse on Webster avenue. This river received the drainage from 
two large slaughter-houses and several sausage and grease factories, situ- 
ated in Cambridge and .Somerville, and some house drainage; and the ac- 
cumulation of filth upon its Hats, which were bare at low tide, caused an 
intolerable nuisance, which w-as a serious menace to the health and pros- 
perity of both Cambridge and Somerville. As a result of the joint efforts 
of the two cities before the legislatures of 1S72 and 1S73, laws were enacted, 
in the latter year, for the filling, by the land owners, of the river and the low- 
lands adjoining, and for the construction of a trunk sewer from Craigie 
I^ridge, on the Charles Ri\er, in Cambridge, through liridge street, in Cam- 
bridge, and Milk street (now Somerville avenue), in Somerville, to Pros- 
pect street : the cost of the construction and maintenance of said sewer to 
be borne by .Somer\ille and ( Vimbridgc, in the proportions, which were 





George a. Bruce. 



George O. Brastow. 





William H. Furber. 



Austin Belknap. 







^^^ 




I 




1 


jSSI 








'' \'- 


■w '"^Pl^^^^^^^^^^^l 


\ > ' 





Aaron Sargent. 



Douglas Frazar. 





Clarence E. Meleney. 



Iaikus Mann. 



S0MER17LLE, /'AST .LVJ) /Vv'/iSEA'T. 149 

afterwards determined, of five-ninths for Somerville, and four-ninths for 
Cambridge. 

The carrying out of these measures, which was begun in the year 1.S73, 
wrought such a change that a recent comer can hardly realize the previous 
condition of the district. 

The policy of constructing brick sidewalks was inaugurated by the first 
city government, under an act, obtained from the legislature, authorizing 
the assessment of one-half the cost upon the abutting estates, and several 
miles were laid during the two years of Mayor Brastow's administration, 
viz. 1872 and TS73. 

The city council of 1S72 also made provision for a public library, which 
was opened, in the city hall, May i, 1.S73. with 2,386 volumes. 

Other great improvements made by the government of 1873 were the 
widening of Highland avenue, between Medford and Central streets, to a 
uniform width of sixty feet, and the increasing of the width of Milk street 
(now Somerville avenue) its entire length, from the East Cambridge line to 
North Cambridge. The greater part of the work on the latter improvement 
was done in the year 1874. 

Mayor William H. Furber's administration, covering the years 1874 
and 1875, is specially memorable for the laying out and construction of the 
Broadway Park and the widening and straightening of Broadway, on the 
northerly side, between Temple street and Mount Benedict. During the 
same period the new police building on Bow street was erected, the exten- 
sion of the trunk sewer in Milk, Washington and P3eacon streets, from 
Prospect street to Kent street, was begun, the widening and reconstruction 
of Milk street was completed, and brick sidewalks were laid on both sides 
in its entire length. The name of Milk street was then changed to Somer- 
ville avenue, lentil the erection of the new police building, the poUce de- 
partment had occupied the one-story wooden building at the southerly corner 
of Milk and Prospect streets, now occupied by the water board, and the 
police court, since the incorporation of the city, had occupied a room in 
the city hall. Most of the room which the court vacated was added to the 
space occupied by the public library. 

Another most important measure was the introduction of the electric 
fire alarm system, which was completed and put in operation June 17, 1874. 
Xo other measure, in the history of the city, has caused such intense 
feeling and bitter controversy as did the laying out and construction of the 
Broadway Park. Under an act of the legislature passed in March, 1874, a 
section of land comprising some sixteen acres, lying in a hollow between 
Winter Hill and Mount Benedict, and extending from Broadway to Mystic 
avenue, was acquired for the purposes of a public park, and the city also 
secured, without cost, a strip fifty feet in width, for an avenue, on either 
side of the park lands, and the filling required for the park and the two 
avenues. This land was about three feet below the grade established by 
the city as a sanitary protection, and was, to a certain extent, the natural 
basin for the watershed of the elevations between which it lay. In the 



ISO soMi-.Rin.i.i:. i:\sT .\.\n i'ri:si:\i\ 

language of Mayor lurlier's inaugural address of 1S73, it " was being rapidly 
and densely built upon, without change of grade, and the drainage of many 
of the buildings erected allowed to How unmolested upon the surface, thus 
forming a nucleus for pestilence and disease, that was tending to depreciate 
the surrounding property and to jeopardize the health of the dwellers there- 
on." Ikfore applying to the legislature, the owners of the adjacent lands 
endeavored to secure the territory by private purchase, but a few of the 
owners refused to sell at any price. 

Although the plans for the improvement of the lands adjacent have 
not as yet been fully carried out, yet the city is now enjoying a beautiful 
park, and a nuisance which threatened most serious results has, by its crea- 
tion, been abated. 

The large expenditures made during the first four years of the city, the 
chief of which have herein been alluded to, involved a rapid increase of the 
funded debt, and the business depression, and the general shrinkage of 
values which followed, precluded, for several years, the making of any public 
improvements that were not actually indispensable. In fact, the heavy debt 
and high taxes with which Somerville, as well as nearly every other city, 
was burdened made it the chief duty of city governments to reduce the 
debt and curtail expenses. The situation was bravely met, and for several 
years the most rigid economy was practiced. 

While Mayor Austin l.elknap was in office, during the years iSjT) and 
1877, the trunk sewer for the southerly side of the city, which had been laid 
in Beacon street, westerly to Kent street, was extended through Beacon 
street, Somerville avenue, Mossland street and Kim street, to Davis square. 

The public park on I'roadway, which was laid out and nearly com- 
pleted under Mayor Furber, was finished in the year 1S76, and on the seven- 
teenth of June it was formally opened to the public. At six o'clock in the 
afternoon, the city council met at the park, and, after marching around it' 
assembled, in convention, at a stand which had been erected under the large 
elm tree in liroadway, near the park. Mayor P>elknap spoke lirieHy in regard 
to the conception and cost of the park, and introduced Alderman Jacob T. 
Glines, chairman of the committee on highways, under whose direction 
the park had been constructed. Alderman ( Klines delivered up the custody 
of the park into the hands of the city council, and Mayor IJelknap, after 
receiving it from the construction committee, made an appropriate address 
and placed the park in charge of the committee on public property. The 
exercises were concluded with music and a salute of sixteen guns. 

The law of 1.S75. regulating municipal indebtedness, took etTecl in iS7(), 
when the first contribution of 545,130 was made to the sinking fund. 

The Honorable (ieorge .V. P.ruce filled the office of mayor during the 
years 1.S7S, i,S79 and iSSo. Attention had been called by Mayor J>elknap, 
and was again directed, by Mayor Bruce, to the unsightly, and in some cases, 
unsafe condition of the highway bridges maintained by the Fitchburg and 
the lioston and Lowell railroads over their tracks in our city. The bridge 
at Washington street, on the l-"itchburg ro.id. and the one at .Medford street. 




Mark F. Burns. 



^ jH^ 





WlLLIA.W H. HODGKINS. 



SOMERllLLt:, PAST .LVP /'R/iSEA-T. 153 

on the Lowell, were specially objectionable : the latter being at a marked 
angle to the street. During Mayor liruce's term both of these were re- 
placed by the railroad companies, in co-operation with the city, with wider 
and substantial structures that added greatly to the public convenience 
and to the good appearance of the streets. New bridges have since been 
built over the Lowell road at Cross street, Walnut street, Central street. 
Cedar street and Broadway. 

The office of mayor of the city was filled by Hon. John A. Cummings 
during the years iSSi, 1SS2, 1X83 and 1SS4. The work of grading and im- 
proving the city's land on Central Hill, which had been recommended by 
several of his predecessors, was begun and continued during his administra- 
tion, and the battery standing on the brow of the hill, and mounting four 
cannons used during the war of the rebellion, the erection of which Mayor 
Cummings warmly recommended, was partially constructed in the year 
1SS4, and completed during the first year of the administration of Mayor 
Burns. 

In the year 1.SS4, the public library having outgrown its quarters in 
the city hall, and the room it occupied being much needed for city offices, 
a new building for its accommodation was begun on Central Hill, east of 
and near the city hall. This building was finished and occupied in the 
year 1S85. 

CHAPTER Xin. 

HiSlORV OF THK ClTV GOVERNMENT {Co)ltillllcd). 

Administration of Mavok Dukns. — The Water Suitlv. — Appeication of the Sink- 
ing Fund. — Reduction of the Cri v DEirr. — Introduction of the Police Signal 
System and Electric Stkeei" LiciniNc. —Construction of New Schoolhouses. 

Administration of Mayor 1'oi'F. — Introduction of a High Water Service. 

— The Old Powder H(.)use. — The Somerxti.le Hospital Organized and Estab- 
lished. 

Mayor Cumminos was succeeded by Hon. Mark F. Burns, who was 
the city's chief magistrate for the four years beginning with the year 1SS5. 
hi his first year of office the first fioor of the city hall was remodeled so as 
to utilize the room vacated by the public library. 

It had long been felt that the city's contract with the city of Boston for 
the taking of Mystic Lake water should be modified in the interest of Som- 
erville, and different city governments had endeavored to secure such mod- 
ification. 

Boston pumps the water from the lake into the reservoir on College 
Hill, from which Chelsea and Everett, as well as Somerville, are supplied, 
and thence delivers the water into Somerville's distribution pipes. The 
rates are collected from our water takers by Boston, and are the same as 
those charged to her own citizens. Under the old contract Boston paid into 
the treasury of .Somerville fifteen per cent of the rates so collected up to the 



154 soMi'.Ri/i.i.K. r.isr A.\n i'Ri:si:xr. 

amount of 520.000, twenty per cent on the excess of 520.000 and up to 
530,000, twenty-five per cent on tlie excess of 530,000 and up to 540,000, 
thirty per cent on the excess of 540,000 and up to 530,000, and forty per 
cent on all over 550,000. July i, 18S7, a new contract with lioston was 
made under which .Somer\ille receives from lioston fifty per cent of all col- 
lections. 

Somerxille had faithfully observed the law passed in 1 S73, regulating 
municipal indebtedness, and contrilnued. \ ear by year, to a sinking fund to 
be applied to the payment of the funded debt. This course imposed a large 
tax rate and restricted permanent improvements, as all expenditures must, 
until the net debt exclusive of the water debt was reduced to the limit of 
two and one-half per cent of tiie assessed valuation, be met by taxation. 
Mayor Jkirns, in his inaugural addresses of iSSf) and 1.SS7. recommended an 
application to the legislature for a special act permitting the immediate ap- 
plication of the sinking funds to the reduction of the debt, and an extension 
of the time within which the remainder of the debt might be paid. A law 
granting these privileges was enacted in the year iSS;, and on the 23d of 
March, iSSS, by the application of the sinking funds, which amounted to 
5654,312.66, the debt was reduced from 51.525,000 to 5S7o.6,S7.36. I'nder the 
new act this remaining debt must be paid within twenty }ears, and the op- 
tion was given the city of providing for its lic|uidation by means of a new 
sinking fund or by paying, directly, a certain i^ortion every jear. Hy an or- 
dinance passed in February, iSSS, the city council established the latter 
policy, which was to apply to the debt then outstanding and to any that might 
thereafter be incurred. Inder this ordinance, whenever a loan is negoti- 
ated the bonds are so written that a proportionate part will mature annualK 
up to the limit of time within which tlie whole must be paid. 

I'nder Mayor liurns" administration the police signal system and elec- 
tric street lighting were introduced : also the support of poor department 
was reorganized, under special legislation, so that the overseers serve with- 
out compensation and have the services of an agent, who devotes his en- 
tire time to the business of the dej^artment, and a secretarv. 

During this period the policy was established of constructing four-room 
schoolhouses, as well as larger ones, of brick, and one of the first of these 
buildings, which was erected on Cherry street, was appropriatel\ named 
the Burns School. A hose house, erected on the old ledge lot on Somer- 
ville avenue at the corner of Lowell street, was also added to the buildings 
of the fire department. 

The Hon. Charles G. Pope served as mayor of the city during the 
years 1.SS9, 1890 and i.Stji. An important feature of his administration was 
the introduction of a water service for the high lands of the city. .\ tank 
thirty feet in diameter and one hundred feet high, estimated to hold about 
five hundred and thirty thousand gallons, was erected on the top of Spring 
Hill, and supplied with water by a pumping plant on the City I'arm on Cedar 
street at the corner of P>roadway. ]>y means of this system the very highest 
lands in our city were made desirable for building purposes, as an abundance 




Melville D. Jones. 




L. Herbert Huntley. 



SOMERllLLK, PAST AM) rRESENT. I 57 

of water was assured, with an ample pressure for fire protection as well as 
other purposes. 

In the year iSgo the heirs of Nathan Tufts donated to the city, on cer- 
tain conditions, which were accepted by the city council, about 65,000 feet 
of land, near Broadway and Kim street, with the ( )ld Powder House, so- 
called, standing thereon. Referring- to the subject, Mayor I'ope, in his in- 
augural address, delivered January 5, 1S91, said : — 

" Through the generosity of one of the families that have been identified 
with the history of Somerville from the first, the city has recently come into 
possession of the ' only ancient ruin ' within the Commonwealth. The story 
of the l^owder House, so far as known, has often been repeated. Erected 
at some time between 1700 and 1720, as the records show, it was first used 
as a grist-mill. The Province of Massachusetts bought it in 1747, and in the 
deed given it is spoken of as the stone edifice formerly a windmill. It was 
then remodeled for a powder magazine, and used as such by the Province 
and Commonwealth until 1822. It was the scene of one of the early events 
in the stirring days of the Revolution, as you all know." 

By an act of the legislature approved May 7, i.S(;[, the city council 
was authorized to acquire additional land adjacent to the site of the Old 
Powder House, for the purposes of a public park. 

During Mayor i^ope's term a considerable sum was expended in con- 
tinuing the construction of the Central Hill Park, and that portion between 
the High Schoolhouse and the engine house was substantially finished. In 
his second year of oftice memorial tablets were erected, marking points of 
historic interest in our city, as stated at length in another portion of this 
volume. 

The Somerville Hospital was founded during Mayor Pope's administra- 
tion. Miss Martha R. Hunt, a highly respected resident of Somerville, de- 
sirous of providing, within our borders, for the proper care of the sick and 
injured, communicated her wishes to the mayor and agreed to give a gener- 
ous sum of money, if the citizens would contribute a like sum, for the pur- 
pose of establishing a hospital. L'nder Mayor Pope's direction, and largely 
through his efforts, the requisite funds were secured and the corporation of 
the Somerville Hospital was organized under the laws of the Commonwealth, 
Mayor Pope being chosen president of the board of trustees. Land was 
purchased on Crocker, Tower and Crown streets, and suitable buildings 
erected, to which others may be added when required. The hospital was 
opened in the year 1893, and is thus spoken of in the inaugural a'ddress de- 
livered by Mayor Hodgkins at the beginning of the following year : — 

" Although this is a private and in no sense a public institution sup- 
ported by the city, it is one in which Somerville may well feel an honorable 
pride. Its completion engaged the last labors of the Hon. Charles G. Pope, 
my predecessor in the mayoralty, who departed this life on the 24th day of 
April last. He lived long enough to witness its completion, after long and 
faithful labor in perfecting its organization. It was dedicated on Ma}^ 17, 
1893, and was immediately occupied. Though the need of such an institu- 
tion has long been recognized, yet such was not fully understood until the 
hospital had demonstrated it by its humane and noble work. Having no 
endowment or stated income, it relies for support principally upon the con- 



iS-"^ so.mi:r\/i.i.i:, past .\xi) i'i<Esi:xr. 

iributioiis of our benevolent citizens. ( hviui;- to the fact that it receives ami 
inamtains many wiio mi}>;ht otherwise be a chars^e upon the city. I trust the 
citizens will not be heedless to its calls for hnancial aid." 



cii.\iti:r XIV. 

MlsroKV OK IHK (lis (i()\ KK.NMKX I (Coiiclltilcd). 

.\l>Ml.MSTK.Vrii>N (>K .M.WOK HoliiiKlNS. — EsT.Mil.lSH.MKNT ol' IIIK N.VrH.W Tl'ITS 
l'.\KK. — Cl.I.EliKATIoN OI-THi; SeNU-CI.NTKNMAI. AN.MVI.KS.XKV. — PaVIN(J Im|-OKTAN1 

TuDRori^ui-AKEs. — Ekkciion (IK THK New Hu;u Scuooe Bkili)IN<;. — A New 
CiTV Hall AnvucvrED. — Ekeciion of a New Cemkal Y\kv. Statio.n. — Great 

I.MrRO\E.MENT.S NLM)E IN VaUIiUS DiKECTIoNS. — .\l)MIMSrR.'\TION OK MaVOK PeKRV. 

■ — Changes at Tin-: Cirv Mali,. — I.\ii'(irtant Imi'R()\ements in the Sewer SvsrE.vi. 
— High Credep hk the Crrv. — Functions ok l)n-KEKENr Hoards ok the Cnv 
(■■o\KRNMENr. — ScorE OK Ciiv Chakikr. 

Hon. William H. Hoixikins filled the office of mayor of the city dur- 
ing the four years beginning in January, 1S92. 

In May, 1S92, the city council voted to accept the gift of 6,s, 357 feet of 
land, including the site of the Powder House, tendered by the heirs of Nathan 
Tufts in the year 1X90, and to purchase in addition, under authority of 
the act of 1.S91, hereinbefore referred to. 129,497 square feet at the junction 
of l^roadway and Klni street. The entire tract forms a sciuare of between 
four and five acres, with the Old Powder House standing on a rocky emi- 
nence in its midst. The grounds were artistically laid out by the then city 
engineer, the late Horace L. Eatcjn. and work thereon was prosecuted 
throughout Ma\or Hodgkins" administration until the year 1.S95. when it 
was finished, and a beautiful ])ark on ground of great historic interest was 
thrown open to the public, it is called the Nathan I'ufts Park, as provided 
in the deed of gift. 

March 3. 1.S92, was the semi-centennial anniversary of the incorporation 
of the town of .Somerville. 15ecause of the general inclemency of the 
weather at that season the event was observed, and very successfully, on the 
following 17th of June, by a parade composed of various military organiza- 
tions, old and distinguished citizens, with the city government and invited 
guests, and an imposing representation of the trades and manufactures of 
the city. The program also included a banquet, an oration, and fire- 
works: and a large and most interesting collection of historic relics was ex- 
hibited in the High School. Mayor Hodgkins thus spoke of the occasion 
in his ne.xt following inaugural address : — 

•'()n the 17th of June last, in accordance with a plan devised by the 
Citizens' Association, of w^hich Hon. Charles S. Lincoln was chairman, the 
fiftieth anniversary of the incorporation of Somerville was celebrated. The 
occasion is of too recent occurrence to require much comment at this time. 
I doubt if the event will ever be forgotten by those who participated in it. 
It was a day in which intense and almost insufferable heat struggled for the 




James M. Andrews. 




JosiAH N. Pratt. 



SOMKRllLLE^ PAST AXD PRESKXr. 



l6l 



mastery, only to be overcome by tempest and storm. 'I'he gaily decorated 
city was thronged with spectators, and hundreds of former citizens returned 
to engage in the festivities of the dav. The occasion was favored with the 
presence of His Excellency Governor Russell and members of his staff, 
members and ex-members o'f Congress, mayors of cities, and other men dis- 
tinguished in various walks of life. During the furious tempest in the after- 
noon, just at the close of the parade, many lives were in danger, but, provi- 
dentially, only a few persons were injured. The literary exercises intencled 
for the afternoon were held in the afternoon of the following day in an im- 
mense tent erected on Central Hill Park, where the largest audience ever 
assembled in this city listened to an eloquent and admirable historical ad- 
dress delivered by Hon. George A. Bruce, ex-Mayor of Somerville." 

The paving of Somerville avenue had been advocated by many citizens 
for several years. Somerville had no paved streets, but the bad condition 
of this avenue, notwithstanding frequent repairs, seemed to demonstrate that 
it was not possible to maintain a good macadamized road under the heavy 
teaming which passed over it. A special act of the legislature was obtained 
authorizing a paving loan of one hundred thousand dollars, and that portion 
of the avenue extending from Medford street to Park street, including the 
whole of Union square, was paved with granite blocks, as w^as also Webster 
avenue, from Union square to the Fitchburg railroad. Similar paving has 
since been laid in Washington street, from I'nion square to Tufts street, 
and in Medford street, from Somerville avenue to the Cambridge line. 

The northerly line of Broadway had been straightened, in connection 
with the laying out of the Broadway Park, but the southerly line, which, in 
the vicinity of the park, described a long bow, remained unchanged. This 
portion of the street, being of a width varying from one hundred to two 
hundred feet, was unsightly, its great width was unnecessary, and the cost 
of maintenance was large. In conjunction with the West End Street Rail- 
way Company, a parkway was constructed in the year 1S92, in the middle 
of the street, conforming, in width, substantially to the varying width of the 
roadway, and the street railway tracks were laid through its centre. The 
result is most pleasing, and the improvement is universally commended. 

For many years the High School, an imposing structure erected in 1S71, 
the last year of the town government, had been badly crowded, so that the 
lowest class was divided; each division attending but three hours. The 
building originally contained two large schoolrooms, calculated for about 
ninety pupils each, with ample classrooms, laboratory, etc. The third story 
consisted of a large public hall with suitable anterooms. In the course of 
years the hall and ante-rooms had been converted into schoolrooms, addi- 
tional seats had been placed in the original schoolrooms, and all available 
space had been utilized. The enlargement of the building had been con- 
sidered, but it was deemed best to erect an English high school and use 
the old building for a classical or Latin school. The site selected was the 
crown of Central Hill, between the old High School and the public library 
building, and directly back of the Unitarian church. 

With the exception of the church property, comprising some twenty 
thousand square feet of land, the entire block bounded by Highland ave- 



1 62 SOyrERMf.I.K. IWST AXn I'RFSllXT. 

nue. School street, the Lowell railroad, and Medford and Walnut streets, 
was owned by the city, and Mayor Hodfj;kins, in his inaugural address of 
1S93, recommended its purchase. The property was acciuired the same year, 
and the erection of the English High School was begun. The church was 
allowed to stand until the spring of 1.S95, when a portion of the new church 
edifice, which the society was erecting on Highland avenue at the corner of 
Trull lane, became ready for occupancy. The inauguration of the city 
government of 1S95 was held in the old church, and the last use made of it 
was the holding of a fair, in aid of the Sonierville Hospital, in March, iS(75. 
After the tlemolition of the building the grounds were graded and grassed, 
and walks were laid to the schoolhouses and the public library building. 
The English High School was opened in September, 1S95. 

The increase of public business, incident to the rapid growth of the city, 
taxed to the utmost the capacity of the city hall. With the exception of the 
space at the rear end of the building, vacated by the police court and the 
public library, the room available for cit\- l)usiness remained the same in 
1S93 as it was in 1S72. In 1S95 the clerk of committees, who had occupied 
a room connected with the assessors" office, took possession of the mayor's 
room, on the second Moor, and various officers needing desk room only, 
were accommodated in the rooms of the board of aldermen and the common 
council. 

MaNor Hodgkins, in his inaugural addresses of 1S93, 1S94 and iS(;5, 
called attention to the need of a new city hall, and recommended the pro- 
curing of plans and estimates of the cost. He also presented, as a plan 
for the ultimate development of the Central Hill Park, the removal of the 
Central Fire Station, at the corner of Walnut street, and the erection of a 
much larger one, for which there was urgent need, on the IJrastow School 
lot on Medford street, leaving the end of the jDark near Walnut street avail- 
able as a site for a new city hall ; the erection of a soldiers' memorial build- 
ing as part of an enlargement of the public library building, extended west- 
erly, and the removal of the old Cit\ Hall and the reduction of the knoll on 
which it stands so as to give a proper slope toward School street and High- 
land avenue. 

.\ new central fire station was erected, in 1894, on the Hrastow School 
lot, as recommended by the mayor, but the old fire station has not been 
removed. In the same year a fire station, for a ladder truck, was erected 
on Highland avenue near Ced.ir street, and in 1S95 a steam fire engine iiouse 
was erected on J>roadway at the corner of Cross street. 

A new city stable was erected on the City Farm on Broadway, in 1S94. 
and the old stable was gi\en over to the board of health. With the facili- 
ties thus afforded, this board was enabled to abandon the contract system 
of collecting ashes and offal, and to do this work by the day; the necessary 
outfit being purchased, and a superintendent employed to oversee the work. 
The expense of the new system is greater, but the service is far better. 

In 1.S95 the Wyatt Pit, so-called, situated in rear of Washington street, 
in ward two, was acquired, under a special act of the legislature, to be used. 




'yw^"^^ V»-~ ' 



Howard D. Moore. 




William H. Berry 



SOMERl'n.I.E, PAST AM) JKESENT. 1 65 

ultimately, as a public park ; the act also authorizing the acquisition of 
lands adjacent for the same purpose. This was an old clay pit, filled with 
water, and, as it was unguarded by fences, was a source of danger ; several 
drowning accidents having occurred there. For this reason, mainly, it was 
taken by the city. It has been enclosed with a high board fence, and is 
used, by the board of health, for an ash dump, for which purpose it was 
also used before it became the property of the city. 

Hon. Albion A. Perry became mayor of the city January 6. i8(/). On 
his recommendation, presented in his inaugural address, a temporary solu- 
tion of the city hall problem has been reached by the addition, at the rear 
of the city hall, of a structure somewhat larger than the old building, and 
the remodeling of the present offices on the first fioor. 

The city treasurer, assessors, city engineer and clerk of committees 
will occupy the addition, and the city clerk, water board, city messenger, 
inspector of buildings, etc., will have offices in the old part of the building. 
The second floor of the old building, in which are the chambers of the 
board of aldermen and the common council and the office of the mayor, 
will not be changed, except by the opening of a doorway from the alder- 
manic chamber into the rear hallway. The work is nearly completed, and it 
is expected that the accommodations afforded will be sufficient for several 
years to come. 

The territory at the foot of the slope southwest of Holland street and 
bordering on C'ambridge has long been in need of drainage, but, being at 
too low a level to drain into the Somerville sewers, its wants in that respect 
have not been supplied. After considerable study by the engineers, and 
much consultation, an arrangement has been made between the cities of 
Cambridge and Somerville, under an act of the legislature of the year 1S96 
for the construction of a sewer and also a large surface-water drain from the 
metropolitan sewer in Cambridge, at Alewife Brook, through the valley of 
Tannery Brook in Cambridge and Somerville to the vicinity of Davis square. 
By this means not only will sewerage facilities be aft'orded the territory just 
referred to, but substantial relief will be given the sewers around Davis 
square, the capacity of which has for some time past been seriously overtaxed 
during heavy rains. Work is now progressing on this sewer and drain, the 
latter having its outlet into Alewife Brook, and the former into the Metro- 
politan sewer. 

It is not intended in this paper to name all of the improvements made 
by the city, but merely to mention the more important. Streets, sewers and 
sidewalks have been laid out and constructed, from year to year, school- 
houses have been erected, street railways extended, street lights provided, 
the fire and police departments enlarged, and all the various facilities af- 
forded for the comfort and convenience of the public that are expected of a 
modern city. 

While the administrations of Mayors Belknap, Bruce, Cummings and 
Burns were not marked by many notable public improvements, yet their 
work is none the less commendable, as by a rigid economy and good man- 
agement they reduced a large debt nearly one-half, until it was brought 



1 66 soMERiii.Li:. I'Asr .\.\n rRi-.sixr. 

within the legal limit, and at the ^ame time paid all expenses, including the 
cost of new buildings, from the annual tax levy. 

Thus the city enjoyed the best of credit during a period of financial 
depression, and secured a borrowing capacity \vhich, by the increase of tax- 
able property, has been continued, and has enabled later city governments 
to make liberal provision for the increasing needs of the community- 

Tile charter granted to Somerville, by the legislature, was of the kind 
commonly granted to cities at the time. It adhered, as closely as possible, 
to town methods : the city council (consisting of the board of aldermen 
and the common council) exercising the powers of the town, and the board 
of aldermen those of the selectmen ; the action of both being largely 
governed by the general laws of the State. Thus all appropriations are 
made, loans authorized, claims settled, public property purchased or sold, 
and public buildings erected by order of the city council, which also enacts 
all ordinances and has jurisdiction in the matters of the laying out, con- 
struction and repair of streets, the erection of street lights, and the care and 
maintenance of all public property : while the board of aldermen is charged, 
among other things, with the construction and maintenance of sewers, the 
laying of brick sidewalks and setting of edgestones, and the granting of 
licenses of various kinds, and of locations for street railways and for lines 
of electric wires. 

The assessors and assistant assessors, city auditor, city clerk, city 
physician, city solicitor, city treasurer, overseers of the poor, superin- 
tendent of streets and trustees of the public library, are elected by the 
citv council, as are also fence viewers, field drivers, measurers of wood 
and bark, and pound keepers. All other officers, with the members of the 
police and fire departments, are appointed by the mayor: the appoint- 
ments, except of keeper of the lock-up and burial agents for the interment 
of indigent soldiers and the wives and widows of the same, being subject to 
confirmation by the board of aldermen. The members of the police and 
fire departments hold their appointments until removed by the mayor and 
aldermen. 

.Ml public works, except the construction and maintenance of the water 
works, are carried on by the city council or the board of aldermen, ac- 
cording as the one or the other may have jurisdiction, acting through com- 
mittees, which are assisted by superintendents and the city engineer. 

There are five boards which are either appointed by the mayor and 
aldermen or elected by the city council, that are entirely independent of 
both, except as to the amount of their appropriations. These are the board 
of assessors, the board of health, the board of overseers of the poor, the 
board of registrars of voters, and the water board. The water board de- 
rives its authority from the city charter, and the duties of the other four 
are defined by the general laws of the .State. The assessors and assistant 
assessors and the board of registrars of voters receive salaries fixed by 
the city council, and are provided with all necessary clerical assistance. 
The members of the other three boards serve without compensation. The 
board of health has two agents, the board of overseers has an agent and 




Leonard B. Chandler. 






T^'*"! 


M^fe/*^^ 




(•a 


fc« ; 




i- < 
o 



SOM/iRlVLU:, J'JST .LVD PRESENT. 1 69 

a secretary, and the water board has a superintendent and a clerk, all of 
whom receive salaries. 

The school committee is also an independent board, elected by the 
people, and governed by State law. Its members serve without com- 
pensation and, with the assistance of a superintendent, who is also secretary 
of the board, have the exclusive management of the schools ; the school 
buildings being provided and maintained by the city council. The mayor 
\'i. ex officio, chairman of the school committee, and the president of the 
common council is also a member. 

The powers and duties of the mayor, aside from making appointments 
to and removals from office, subject to confirmation by the board of alder- 
men, consist, chiefly, in presiding at the meetings of that board and of the 
school committee, serving as chairman of certain of the committees of the 
city council and of the board of aldermen, drawing all warrants on the 
treasurer for the payment of money, and signing bonds, notes and other 
legal instruments, in behalf of the city. He has also been given, by general 
legislation, the power of veto over all ordinances, joint orders and resolu- 
tions, and all orders of either branch of the city council authorizing an 
expenditure of money; a two-thirds vote being required to pass any such 
paper over his veto. He is the chief executive officer of the city, and is re- 
quired by the charter to cause the laws and regulations of the city to be 
enforced, and to keep a general supervision over all subordinate officers. 
He may also call special meetings of the board of aldermen and the 
common council whenever, in his opinion, the interest of the city may 
require it. 

Those favoring the modern form of charter make the following points 
in criticism of our own : — 

I. All executive power, including the construction of public works, should 
be vested in the mayor, to be exercised by him with the aid of competent 
heads of departments : or such construction should be entrusted to a board 
of public works, a minority of whose members should be appointed annually, 
for a term of several 3'ears. Under our system of having public work carried 
on by the city council or board of aldermen, through committees, the 
responsibility is so divided that it cannot be definitely fixed, and many times 
authority is assumed by a committee that it does not possess, or by the 
chairman of a committee that belongs to the committee as a whole; a con- 
dition not favorable to the best economy. 

2. The mayor should be relieved of all legislative duties, and of the 
duty of presiding at board meetings, and given the power of veto over all 
orders. 

3. All work upon and under the streets, as the laying of sewers and water 
pipes, the maintenance of the highways, and the granting of permits to gas 
and other companies or to individuals to open the streets, should be under 
one head. One advantage of this arrangement would be the avoidance, in 
many cases, of the opening of a street to do underground work shortly after 
the paving or macadamizing of the surface. 

4. In the line of definitely fixing responsibility many hold that one 



I/O Si)Mi:R\n.ij:, iwsi .ixn /'av-sv/.w. 

l)oarcl, reasonably lariat.' in numbers, is preferable to two: a sufficient check 
upon unwise leijislation being^ secured by the veto power lodged with the 
mayor. 

A commission has been appointed to consider what amendments, if 
an\, siiould be made to the charter, and to report to the city council. 

Whatever may be the merits or demerits of the charter, the affairs of 
the city have, on the whole, been well managed, and the people are under 
lasting obligations to those, who have so ably and faithfully served her in- 
terests. The aldermen and councilmen receive no compensation, and the 
salary of the mayor is much less than any incumbent of the office would 
consider sufiicient for equal service in his private business. 

( )n the evening of inauguration day. January 2. iS,S2, a notable event 
was commemorated. Charles E. Oilman had served the people as town and 
city clerk since the organization of the first town government in 1S42, and 
was held in the highest esteem by the entire community. 

The completion of his fortieth term of continuous service was cele- 
brated by a banquet in the hall of the |)olice building on l!ow street, at 
which Mayor Cummings presided, and hundreds of citizens joined in the 
feast, and in congratulating .Mr. (jilman on the happy occasion. As a slight 
token of personal regard he was made the recipient of a gold watch and 
chain and a portrait of himself; a similar portrait was also presented to. the 
city and now hangs in the city clerk's ofifice. .Mr. (Jilman continued in the 
ofiice of city clerk until his death, which occurred February 22, iSScS, 
leaving a most honorable record of forty-six years in the public service. 

Somerville is a good example of the recognition and appreciation of 
faithfulness and merit in public servants. During the twenty-five years 
which have passed since she became a city she has had but two city clerks, 
two city treasurers, three city solicitors, three superintendents of schools, 
one chief of police, one chief engineer of the fire department and one city 
messenger. She has also retained her chief magistrates in office as long as 
they were willing to serve, there having been but nine incumbents of the 
ofiice of mayor up to the present time. 

The government and public service of a city reHect the character and 
intelligence of her people. Somerville is a sober, industrious, law-abiding 
community, with comparatively little pauperism or crime. The sale of intox- 
icating liquor, as a beverage, has been prohibited ever since the question 
was first submitted for decision at the annual city elections, which fact has 
doubtless influenced many in selecting this as a home. lew of our citizens 
are wealthy, but nearly all are comfortably circumstanced, and take an 
active interest in public affairs, especially in maintaining the high standard 
of our schools, and in all matters that contril)ute to the culture and com- 
fort of their families. 

In contemplating our city's history of a quarter of a century, we have 
reason to be grateful to the Divine Ruler for the wisdom and integrity 
which adorn its pages, and to thank Him for the many blessings which He 
has bestowed upon us, not only as individuals, but as a community of 
neighbors and friends. 




Marcus M. Raymond. 



^ 



^ 



^ 




John N. Ball. 



SOMERl'/LLE. J'AST AM) rRESKNT. 173 

Cnv Government and Officers for 1S96. 

Mavor, Albion A. Perry. 

Hoard of Aldermen. — Ward One : L. Herbert Huntley, Josiah X. I'ratt. 
Ward Two : Melville D. Jones, President : Robert S. Wright. Ward Three : 
Leonard B. Chandler, James M. Andrews. Ward Four : William H. Berry, 
Howard D. Moore. Clerk, Ceorge I. Vincent. 

Common Council. - Vwird One: Frank DeWitt Lapham, Frank B. 
Burrows, John Hunnewell, L. Edgar Tniison. Ward Two: George E. 
Whitaker," President; William M. Irving, Richard A. Russell, French O. J. 
Tarbox. Ward Three: Andrew A. Lamont, Arthur W. Berry, Howard 
Lowell, Marcus M. Raymond. Ward Four : John N. Ball, Fred M. Carr, 
Silas L. Cummings, Albert L. Reed. Clerk, Charles S. Robertson. 

Assessors. — (Term, three years.) Benjamin F. Thompson, Chairman 
(term expires 1896), Samuel T. Richards (term expires 1.S98), Nathan H. 
Reed (term expires 1S97) : Clerk of Assessors, Albert B. Tales. 

Board of Health. — (Term, three years.) Allen F. Carpenter, Chair- 
man (term expires 1S97), Alvah B. Dearborn, M. D. (term expires 189S), 
Alvano T. Nickerson, Chairman (term expires 1899); Clerk, William P. 
Mitchell ; Inspector, Caleb A. Page ; Superintendent Collection of Ashes 
and Offal, George W. S. Huse. 

Overseers of the Poor. — (Office, Police Building, Bow street.) Albion 
A. Perry, Mayor, Chairman, .-.v offldo (term, four years). Edward 15. West, 
President (term expires 1899), Albert W. Edmands (term expires 1897), 
Herbert E. Merrill (term expires 1898), Ezra 1). Souther (term expires 
1896) : Agent, Charles C. Folsom ; Secretary, Cora F. Lewis. 

Registrars of Voters. — (Term : City Clerk, one year; other members, 
three years.) Cromwell G. Rowell, Chairman (term expires 1897), Charles 
P. Lincoln (term expires 1898), Charles E. Parks (term expires 1899), George 
L Vincent, City Clerk. 

City Clerk and Clerk of Board of Aldermen, George L Vincent. 

City 'Preasurer and Collector of Taxes, John F. Cole. 

Messenger to City Council, Jairus Mann. 

City Solicitor, Selwyn Z. Bowman. 

City Auditor, Charles S. Robertson. 

City Engineer, Ernest W. Bailey. 

Consulting Engineer, George A. Kimball. 

Superintendent of Streets, John P. Prichard. 

Inspector and Superintendent of Public Buildings, Frederick C. Fuller. 

Chief of Police, Melville C. Parkhurst. 

Chief Engineer of the Fire Department, James R. Hopkins. 

Superintendent of Electric Lines and Lights, Leighton W. Manning. 

City Physician, Alvah B. Dearborn, M. D. 

Inspector of Milk and Vinegar, (."harles S. Philbrick. 

Inspector of Animals and Provisions, Charles M. Berry. 

Sealer of Weights and Measures, Luther B. Pillsbury. 

Clerk of Committees, William P. Mitchell. 




F. O. J. Tarbox. 




Ernest W. Bailey, 



I 




Allen F. Carpenter. 



HISTORY OF THE SCHOOLS. 



CHAPTER XV. 



P^RORi 1842 TO THE ci.osp: OF iHK Sui'kri\tkni)p:ncy ok Joshua H. 

Davis, iSSS.* 

The citizens of Somerville have always manifested their high ap- 
preciation of education by their generous support of the pubhc schools. 
The ever increasing demands for their maintenance and for the construc- 
tion of school buildings have been cheerfully met. School officers and 
teachers have received the hearty support of the entire community. Suc- 
cessive school boards have labored with vigilance and lidelity to maintain 
a high standard of excellence and to adapt the schools to the ever varying 
requirements of the community. They have equally avoided excessive 
conservatism and extreme radicalism. J'hey have adopted new methods 
and measures only when their superiority was apparent. In their efforts to 
promote intellectual culture, the\- have not been unmindful of the more 
important duty of inculcating principles of morality and virtue, and of lay- 
ing the foundation of worthy character. 

Tnder such conditions, by such guidance and supervision, the public 
schools of Somerville have uniformly maintained a position in the front 
ranks of the best in the Commonwealth. 

At the time when Somerville became a separate municipality, a new 
and interesting era in educational affairs had been inaugurated. In the 
year 1837, Horace Mann was appointed secretary of the newly organized 
15oard of Education. His indomitable energy and boundless enthusiasm 
aroused an interest in education throughout the State never before realized. 
During his term of twelve years in office, he completely revolutionized our 
public school system. 

When the State Board of Education was organized, there was but one 
institution designed especially to prepare teachers for their work, but one 
publication to disseminate information upon educational subjects; there 
were no teachers' conventions, and very few books that furnished practical 
information to teachers. School architecture was of a rude type. 

During his first year in office, Mr. Mann visited eight hundred school- 

* To the former Superintendent of Scln)ols, Mr. Joshua II. Davis, the editors of this 
volume are under great obligations for a valuable paper containing the material from which 
this chapter, and portions of the succeeding chapters of the History of Somerville's Schools 
have been prepared. Many other valuable facts and observations in the manuscript fur- 
nished by Mr. Davis have been necessarily omitted for want of space. 

177 



IjS SOMERlIl.I.i:. PAST AXD l'Ri:SI:Xr. 

houses in tlie State. As a result of his t)bservatiuns, lie luadc the following 
statement : " Not one-third of the public schoolhouses in Massachusetts 
would be considered tenantable by any decent family out of the poorhouse 
or in it. I have seen many schoolhouses in central districts (^f rich and 
populous towns, where each seat connected with a desk consisted only of 
an upright post or pedestal, without side-arms or back-board : and some of 
them so high that the feet of the children sought after the Hoor in vain." 
The commodious school buildings, comfortable furnishings and excellent 
schools to be found in every town, at the present day, are in striking con- 
trast with those which passed under the observation of the eminent sec- 
retary. 

After examining the schools of ever\- count\ in the State. Mr. Mann 
commented upon their condition as follows : " There are about three thou- 
sand public schools in this Commonwealth, in all of which the rudiments 
of knowledge are taught. These schools at the present time are so many 
distinct, independent communities, each being governed by its own habits, 
traditions and local customs. There is no common superintending power 
over them. There is no bond of brotherhood or family between them. 
They are strangers and aliens to each other." 

Persons in middle life will recall the poorly constructed schoolhouses 
of those days : the pine benches, unpainted, often notched by boys' jack- 
knives, rising in tiers from the front to the rear of the room, the seats of the 
same material and of suflficient length to accommodate several pupils : the 
frame of blackened boards, splintery and with here and there a knot-hole : 
the angular pieces of chalk that would sometimes leave a mark, but oftener 
a scratch : the odds and ends of text-books, which not infrequently were in 
use for a whole generation. A large stove, or in many cases, an enormous 
fire-place furnished warmth in excess to those who sat near, while those in 
the farther portions of the room sat shivering from the winds that found in- 
gress through the weather-beaten walls. Globes, outline maps, charts, and 
crayons were almost unknown to the schools of sixty years ago. 

(ireat as has been the advance in buildings and et|uipments still more 
marked have been the changes in methods of teaching. 

The introduction of the kindergarten has diffused an influence, that has 
been felt in every grade below the high school; the "laboratory method," 
so called, or learning by doing, has been no less potential, reaching down- 
ward from the college and the high school, improving the work of the 
lower grades. The present secretary of the State Board of Education is 
authority for the statement that, "the best Massachusetts high schools to- 
day are far ahead of the colleges of fifty years ago, or even thirty years ago, 
in the character of the science work done, or of that at least whicii they 
seek to have done." 

In the opinion iA many, still greater changes are imi)ending. (i. Stan- 
ley Hall in a recent lecture said: "Every day we have signs of awakened 
interest, and cultivated people everywhere are coming to realize that there 
is onlv one great cause, the cause of education." 




Joshua H. Davis. 




Gordon a. Soi'thworth. 



SOMKRllLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. l8l 

At the present time there are nine State normal schools, and various 
other institutions of learning, with courses of study for the special prepara- 
tion of teachers. From these preparatory institutions are graduated yearly 
hundreds of persons with qualifications of a high order. Teachers' insti- 
tutes, lectures, conventions, educational publications, discussions, practical 
works on the science of education and the art of teaching, all contribute to 
the development of the highest ability and professional enthusiasm among 
teachers. Men of great natural abilities are attracted to the work of teach- 
ing, and the problems of education are carefully studied by the greatest 
men of the age. 

Great as has been the improvement in the character of the buildings, 
equipments and methods of teaching over those of half a century ago, still 
greater has been the advance in popular sentiment with regard to their im- 
portance. 

The common school of early days was only the germ from which our 
present enlarged and perfected system of public education has been devel- 
oped. " Fortunately the system possesses the flexibility necessary to adapt 
it to the wants of different periods of time, and different communities, with 
their ever varying necessities." 

School Buildincs.* 

The I'ppi-r W'nUer Hill Schoolhoiise, located on Central street, near 
Broadway, was moved to the present site of the Prescott school. East 
Somerville, in the year 1855. In 1856 it was removed to Prospect street, 
where it was known as the Union schoolhouse. 

The Prospect Hill Schoolhouse CQwi'AxwtA two rooms, and was situated on 
Medford street, near the end of Cross street. It was used for school pur- 
poses until the completion of the Brastow in 1S61. The building is now 
located at the corner of Somerville avenue and Prospect street, and is 
used by the Somerville water board. 

The Milk Street Schoolhouse, located on Somerville avenue, near the 
Cemetery, was burned in 1849. 

The Lo7c>er Wiuter Hill Schoolhouse, at the corner of Broadway and 
Franklin street, was occupied by primary schools until 1S46, and, on the 
completion of the first Prescott schoolhouse in that year, was sold and re- 
moved. 

In one of their early reports, the school committee facetiously styled 
these buildings "the dowry of the good old dame to her first and only off- 
spring." 

In addition to the schools above mentioned, one was kept in a private 
dwelling in the Russell district until the completion of the Wabiut Hill 
Schoolhouse in 1843, when the name was changed to the "Walnut Hill dis- 
trict." 

The average attendance in all these schools for the year 1842 was two 
hundred a)id tiventy-six pupils. In 1843-44, the master of the Prospect Hill 

* For an account of the earliest school buildings, see Chapter VIII. 



iSj S()mi:r\ii.i.i:. past .\.\n I'Ri-.si-.xr. 

gi.iiiiiii.il M.iiuul, Mr. William V.. (Iraves, was paid a salary of 5600. 
Master Charles Warren, of the Lower Winter Hill school received 530 
per month : the female teachers 5210 per annum. 

I'he Walnut Hill school was tau<;ht by a male in winter and by a 
female in summer. I'his arrangement was discontinued in 1S53. In 1S34, 
Miss Susanna C". Kussell was appointed teacher and continued in that 
position till the spring of 1X67. Lnder her instruction, pupils passed 
through all primary and grammar grades, and were fitted for the high school. 
In isf);, when the Lincoln school was established, this school was discon- 
tinued- 

.ScHooLiiousEs CoxsiRucrKi) Since 1S42. 

The W'abiKt Hill Schoolhoitsc (already mentionedj was built in 1.S43, 
on Broadway, near the foot of Walnut Hill. In 1S6S it was moved to Cedar 
street, named the "Cedar Street Schoolhouse," and was duplicated in 

i«73- 

The Lower Winter Hill Sehoolhonse, built in 1S43 at the corner of 

Hroadway and Franklin street, was removed to l^eacon street in 1S4.S, and 

named the Harvard Primary. It was enlarged in 1S61, and was burned in 

1S71. 

The J^reseott Sehoolhoiise, Xo. 1, located at the corner of liroadway and 
Franklin street, was built in 1S46, and was Inuned in iS5r). It contained 
two schoolrooms. 

The Franklin Schoolhouse, on Somerville avenue, near the end of Spring 
street, was built in 1846. It contained two rooms, and was duplicated in 
1S62. 

The Prospcet J/ill Sehoolhonse. on Washington, opposite Prospect street, 
was erected in 1S4S, with four rooms. The two front rooms were added in 
1865. 

7he Spring; Hill Primary Sehoolhou.u\h\\\\\ in 1S50, is located in the 
rear of the 1 leech street schoolhouse. 

The Bell Primary was built on Cherry street, near Elm street, in 1S57. 
In 1867 it was moved to the rear of the Franklin schoolhouse. In 1S71 it 
was placed on the site of the Harvard schoolhouse, and took the name of 
that building. In consequence of these changes and "to perpetuate the 
memory of Dr. Luther \'. Hell, a citizen so eminent in his profession, and 
so strong in attachment to the interests of the schools." the school lioard 
adopted the following resolution : — 

''Resolved, That this board recommend that the name ' liell " be given 
to the ne.xt large school building erected in Somerville."" 

///XV/ Sehoolhouse, Xo. i. The building now used as the city hall, was 
dedicated .\pril 29, 1S52. For fifteen years the high .school occupied the 
upper story, the lower being used for town purposes. From 1S67 to l-eb- 
ruary 27, 1S72, when the building was vacated, the entire edifice was occu- 
pied by the school. 

7'he Forstcr Sehoolhoiise, X^o. i, built in 1S54-5, on Sycamore street. 
near the site of the present building, contained four schoolrooms. It was 
burned February iS. 1X^)6. 




Thomas S. Wentworth. 





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Martin W. Carr. 



SOMKRMLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 85 

The Prescott Sc/iool/ioiise, No. 2, containing seven rooms, was built of 
lirick on the spot where the school is now located, and was burned Decem- 
ber 31, 1866. It was rebuilt with twelve rooms in 1867. 

TAr Brastow Schoolhoiise, on Medford street, opposite the end of High- 
land avenue, was built in 1861, containing two schoolrooms. The site is 
now occupied b}' the Central Fire Station. 

77ic Jackson School Iiousc,'a.\. the corner of Poplar and Maple streets, was 
built in 1 861, and has four schoolrooms. 

The Lincoln Schoolho/esc, No. 1, was built on Elm street, in 1866. It 
contained four rooms, was moved to Clarendon Hill, in 1881, and was 
burned October 22, 1884. Jt was rebuilt in 1885. 

The Forster Schoolhoiisc, jVo. 2, Sycamore street, was built in 18^)-, with 
eight schoolrooms and an exhibition hall ; two additional rooms were con- 
structed in the hall in 1881, and, in 1883, the remaining portion of the hall 
was divided into two schoolrooms. 

The Prescott SchoolJtoiisc, No. 3, Pearl street, was built in 1867, with ten 
schoolrooms and a hall. In 1873, the hall was divided into two school- 
rooms. 

The Bennett Schoolhonse, corner of Joy and Poplar streets, was built in 
1868, and has four schoolrooms. 

The JFe/>ster Schoolhonse, on Webster avenue, was built in i8()8, and 
contained four schoolrooms. 

The Morse Schoolhoiise, at the corner of Craigie and Summer streets, 
was built in 1869, containing four rooms and a hall. In 1880, the hall was 
divided into two schoolrooms. In 1889, an addition of six rooms was 
made. 

High Schoolhoiise, A^o. 2, located on Central Hill, was constructed in 
1 87 1, and formally dedicated, February 27, 1872. A chemical laboratory 
and a philosophical room were arranged in the basement. A schoolroom 
fifty-two feet square, and two recitation rooms, twenty-six feet by twenty-two 
feet, occupied the first story, and the second was divided in the same man- 
ner. The third story contained a large hall and three anterooms. 

In December, 1S83, two schoolrooms were constructed in the third 
story, leaving a hall sixty-three by sixty-four feet, which, in 1888, was divided 
into two schoolrooms. 

The Edgerly Schoolhoiise, on Cross street, was built in 1871, containing 
four schoolrooms, to which four were added in 1882, and four others in 
1892. 

The Beech Street Schoolhoiise, originally a chapel, was purchased of the 
Spring Hill Baptist Society in 1872, and contains two schoolrooms. 

The Luther V. Bell Schoolhoiise. on \'inal avenue, was completed in 
1874, and contains twelve schoolrooms. 

77ie Highland Schoolhoiise, corner of Highland avenue and Grove street, 
was built in 1880, with eight rooms, and, in 1890, was raised one story, thus 
making an addition of four rooms. 

The Ciinunings Schoolhoiise, on School street, built in 1884, has four 
schoolrooms. 



iS6 soMERiJi.i.i:, I'Asr AM) /•a'j:sj\/\ 

Till- DiViis S, /i,>ii'^i(>i/si-, on Tufts street, was l)uilt in 1S.S4, and contains 
four rooms. 

'J7it- JJiiiiu/i .\,/i('<i//ioNSi\ jVo. 2. on liroadwa}-. Clarendon Hill, built in 
1SK5, contains four schoolrooms. 

JVir Burns Schoolhousc, Cherry street, near Summer street, was l)uilt 
in 1.SS6, with four schoolrooms. 

The Bifii^'/iiDii Sr/i<>o//i(>u.u\ Lowell street, built in 1SS6, contains four 
rooms. 

The Kiujpp Sehoo/house, Concord square, was built in |SS(,. with ei<,du 
schoolrooms, to which four w-ere added in 1S94. 

The Charles G. Pope Sehoo/house, corner of Washington and JJoston 
streets, was built in 1S91, with twelve schoolrooms. 

The Jaeob T. GTiiies Sehoo/house. Jaques street, was built in i.S<)i. with 
eight schoolrooms, to which five were added in iSc/). 

lyie George IV. Dure// Sehoo/house, located on P>eacon street, was built 
in 1S94, and contains four schoolrooms. 

IVie Eng/ish High Sehoo/house, on i'it\\\.\\\\ Hill, was l)uilt in \>^^)--,. It 
contains fourteen classrooms, a chemical, a physical, a biological laboratory, 
three recitation rooms, a lecture hall, drawing room, two teachers' rooms, 
library, and principal's otitice, besides four manual-training rooms in the 
basement. 

The ]\'i/liiji)i II. ]fod};/;ius Sehoo/hiuise, i^w 1 loUand street, containing 
twelve rooms, was completed in iSyf). 

•' From the foregoing it appears that on her natal day. .Somervillc had 
four school buildings containing in all tn e rooms ; " that, prior to the close 
of iS,S9, "thirty school buildings containing one hundred and sixty-nine 
schoolrooms had been constructed, and one building of two rooms had 
been purchased. Si.x of these, containing nineteen rooms, had been burned." 
Two buildings, containing three rooms, had been applied to other uses, and 
one had been sold. 

IJy the table on page 79 of .Superintendent Southworth's Report for 
1.S95, it appears that at that time the twelve-room buildings were the Pres- 
cott, Kdgerly, L. \. Hell, C C. Pope, Forster, Morse and Highland. The 
O. S. Knapp has thirteen; the J. T. Glines nine (to which five have since 
been added). The Bingham has eight, and the Prospect Hill six rooms. 

The four-room buildings were the Davis. Pennett, Jackson, Cummings, 

Franklin, (i. W. Durell, Ikirns, and Lincoln. The Beech street and Cedar 

street schoolhouses contain two rooms each, and the Harvard has one 

room. The buildings that can fairly claim the greatest antiquity are the 

Cedar street, which has been in use for a period of fifty-three years: the 

l^'ranklin, fifty, the Prospect Hill, fort\-eight. and the Harvard, forty-live 

years. 

pRiMARV Schools. 

•• For a series of years, about forty-four per cent of the pupils registered 
in all the schools have been in this department. 

"' Previous to 1.S57, pupils were admitted to these schools at the age of 
four years, and were retained in them four years. 




QUINCY E. DlCKERMAN. 




S. Newton Cutler. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 89 

•'Since that time the age of admission has been five years, and the 
work has been completed in three years." ''Early in our history children 
were subjected to great discomfort from lack of desks and other needed 
appliances. The irksome alphabet method of teaching reading was univer- 
sally practiced. There was no slate work, and no instruction in writing and 
drawing. Little was done to relieve the tedium and enliven the school life 
of the children by furnishing them congenial employment ; and the teacher's 
energies were directed chiefly to the maintenance of order and the repres- 
sion of the activities of their pupils." 

During the last sixty years all this has been changed. Convenient and 
comfortable furniture, more rational methods of instruction and study have 
made school life more attractive as well as vastly more profitable. At the 
present time much more is accomplished in a given period, and with less 
expenditure of vital force. 

(jKAM.mar Schools. 

"At their first meeting, March 21, 1.S42, the school committee took 
measures for the immediate establishment of a permanent grammar school." 

The Prospect Hill Grai/ii/iar Stiioo/ was established in April, 1S42. Mr. 
William K. Graves, principal. In June, 1S74, the name was changed to the 
•• Luther V. Bell School." 

T/ie Lo7oer JVinter Hill Gi-ai)ii)inr School was organized in April, 1S44, 
with George Swan as principal ; salary #3^)0. In January, 1S47, the name 
was changed to the " Prescott School." 

The Franklin Grain /iiar School was organized in November, 1846, Wil- 
liam E. Graves, principal. In March, 1.S70, the name was changed to the 
" Morse School." The vacancy caused by the transfer of Mr. Graves was 
filled by the choice of Martin Draper, Jr. 

The Forstcr Grammar School was established in February, 1S35, John 
Jameson, principal ; salary jjiyoo. 

The Lincoln Grammar School was established in January, 1867, Horace 
P. Makechnie, principal; salary 51,000. The name was changed to the 
" Highland School " in September, 1881. 

The Charles G. Pope Grammar School was organized in ( )ctober, 1891, 
(xcorge M. Wadsworth, principal ; salary #1,600. 

77ie Edgerly Grammar School was organized in September, 1888, 
Edgar L. Raub, principal. 

2he O. S. Knapp Grammar School was organized in April, 1890, Harry 
N. Andrews, principal. 

" During the first ten years of our history all pupils in the grammar 
schools were under the instruction of the grammar masters. In 1853, an 
intermediate, or sub-grammar grade, embracing the three lower classes of 
the grammar schools, was* established and placed in charge of female 
teachers. This arrangement was continued until 1872, when the present 
mode of classification was adopted as follows : primary, containing three 
classes; grammar, six classes; high, four classes." 

The following are the names of the principals of grammar schools in 
Somerville, not elsewhere mentioned, and the year of their appointment : — 



lyo somi:r\/i.i.i:. iwsr .\\n rRi:si:\r. 

Robert IJickforcl, 1S51 ; McLauren F. Cook, 1.S32: II. ( ). \\ liilteniore, 
1S53 ; Daniel U. Wheeler, 1S54; John Wilson, 1S59; George R. Bradford, 
1S64: Samuel C. Hunt, isr/); John 1). Marston, iSr.S; William 15. Allen. 
1S69: Augustus Lintield. 1S72; L. ]>. Pillsbury, 1S72: Samuel ('. Higgin.s, 
1S76: Charles C". Hunkins, 1S77. 

Two eminent teachers, not elsewhere mentioned, were Cieorge Swan 
and (ieorge T. Littlefield, both of whom left Somerville to accept prominent 
positions in Boston. Kdward W. Howe, one of our grammar masters, was 
afterwards principal of the Jamaica Plain High School, and John Jameson, 
of the lioylston .School. Huston. 

The names of masters and principals serving at the present time will 
he found in another chapter on the schools. 

Fa'kxing Schools. 

Ry a statute of 1SS3, every town and city in this Commonwealth, hav- 
ing ten thousand or more inhabitants, is required to maintain " evening 
schools for the instruction of persons over twelve years of age, in orthogra- 
phy, reading, writing, geography, arithmetic, drawing, the history of the 
I'nited States, and good beha\ior."' 

In 1S75 (December 6), an evening school was opened in the hall, corner 
of Washington and Prospect streets. It contained one hundred and fifty 
pupils of both sexes, from fourteen to thirty years of age. Other evening 
schools were held for several winters in the Luther \'. Bell, Wel)ster and 
Cedar street schoolhouses. 

Evening grammar schools were established in dilTcrent sections of the 
city in 1SS5. 

They have been in charge of the grammar masters, and have been sup- 
plied with all the conveniences and appliances of the day schools. 

I )kA\\ i\( ;. 

This branch of education was introduced into the high school in 1.S53, 
and made one of the regular exercises of the school. From 1S53 to 1S57 
(inclusive), Mr. Wm. X. Bartholomew was an instructor in this department. 

The Legislature of 1.S70 enacted that drawing should be added to the 
required branches of learning to be taught in tlie public schools, and that 
towns and cities of more than ten thousand inhabitants furnish free instruc- 
tion in industrial or mechanical drawing to persons over fifteen years of 
age, in day or evening schools, under the direction of the school com- 
mittees. 

Both these requirements were promptly met. In Januar\-, 1S72, a school 
was organized under the direction of Prof. Lucas Baker, who also had charge 
of the school in the winter of 1S73-4. Prof. Baker was employed, also, to 
give instruction to teachers of grammar and primary schools on Saturdays, 
during part of i,S73-4. In 1S.S5, Mr. Charles .M. Carter, agent of the State 
l)0ard of Education, performed a similar work. While the regular teachers 
were becoming qualified in this branch, the schools were taught by special 




Citizens for whom Somerville Schools are named. 



^^' "^ 




Citizens for wiioiii Somerville Schools are nanieJ. 



S0MEK17LLE, J 'AST JXD PRESENT. 193 

instructors. In their report of i.S;;, the committee say that "all teachers 
employed by the city are expected to teach drawing with the same degree 
of skill and success that they do penmanship, or any other branch of in 
struction." 

In 1SS5, evening drawing schools were resumed, and have been contin- 
ued without interruption. 

In iSSS and 1SS9 a special teacher of drawing was employed to give in- 
struction in all the schools. 

Music. 

In September, 1859, Mr. S. I). Hadley was employed to teach vocal 
music in the grammar schools. The committee, in 1860, commend his work, 
and in 1S61 they say, "His services have done much to improve as well 
as to elevate the tone of the schools." 

In September, iSGS, Mr. S. H. ( ). Hadley was appointed teacher of 
music in the high school, and in September, 1S70, he succeeded Mr. S. 1). 
Hadley in the grammar schools. A new impulse was given to the study of 
music the same year by the introduction of Mason's charts. In their report 
of tSS7, the committee say: " In all the grades one hour a week is devoted 
to the study and practice of music, which has been a regular branch of in- 
struction in our schools for nearly thirty years. For the last twenty years 
it has been under the direction of Mr. S. H. ( ). Hadley." ..." Mr. Hadley, 
by his enthusiasm and rare ability and skill as a teacher, has ever sustained 
a commendable interest in this important branch of instruction." In the 
high school, the practice of singing by note is discontinued, and pupils sing 
at sight the music contained in the l-ifth or High School Music Reader, 
which contains compositions of a high order from the best masters. 

Sewing. 

" In the early part of this century instruction in this branch was given 
to girls in the public schools quite generally. This practice has been re- 
vived." In September, 1S8S, two sewing teachers were appointed to instruct 
the girls of the grammar schools. The results are highly satisfactory. 

Free Texi-Books and Supplies. 

Since the opening of the schools in September, 1884, agreeably to a law 
enacted that year, all pupils have been supplied with the text-books and 
materials needed in their school work free of expense to them. 

The. total cost to the city during the first four years that the law was in 
force for these supplies was $27,519.63, of which $16,456.00 was for text- 
books. 

Vacations and Holidays. 

Forty- eight weeks constituted the school year until 1847, when it was 
reduced by one week, and Christmas was added to the six holidays which 
had been previously granted. 

In 1850, the vacations and holidays were : one week, commencing with 
the first Monday in March ; one week, commencing with the first Monday 



194 soMiJuii.LE. r.isr .\xi) i'Ri:si:\T. 

in June: three weeks, commencing with the second Monday in August: 
Thanksgiving Day, with the remainder of the week : the afternoons of W'ed- 
nesday and Saturday : New \ear"s : Fast Day : the i st of Mav : the 17th of 
June; l-'ourth of July : Christmas. 

In 1S57, the twenty-second of February was added to tiie holidays. In 
1S63, the Saturday sessions in the high school were discontinued. In isos, 
the week preceding the first Monday in March was made a vacation, and 
the summer vacation was made '* seven weeks preceding the first Monday in 
September." Christmas week also became a vacation. 

In 1S72, the school year was reduced to forty weeks, and the afternoon 
sessions to two and one-half hours. In 1S75, the afternoon sessions were 
reduced to two hours, and the recess was discontinued. In 1SS4, a session 
of two hours \\'ednesda\- afternoon was substituted for the session of three 
hours Saturday forenoon. 

In iS,S6, vacations and holidays were granted as follows: " Every Sat- 
urday ; from noon of the da> preceding Thanksgiving until the Monday fol- 
lowing; from December 24 at noon to the day after that celebrated as Xew 
^■ear's Day; the 22d of February ; the week immediately preceding the first 
.Monday in March; Fast I)a\- ; one week, commencing on the Monda\ pre- 
ceding the first Wednesday in May; Memorial Day ; the 17th of June ; the 
weeks between the close of the school year and the first Monday in Sep- 
tember." 



CHAPTER XVI. 

HisroR\ or riii; Schools {Co/i/i/iiwd).* 

Si I'l-.KIM I.MJKNCV OK Cl.AKKNC K K. M l.I.KNKV. 

Till, committee on annual report for the year 1S88, Mr. James F. 
Heard, chairman, use the following language concerning Superintendent 
Davis. 

•' I5y the resignation of Mr. Joshua H. Davis, the city has lost the 
valued services of a superintendent whose long employment in the interest 
of her schools had made him intimate with the w^ants and conditions of 
every department of the work and section of the city. . . . The general satis- 
factory condition of the schools, as he left them, show him to have been 
well abreast of the times in all educational lines of thought and practice. 
We take pleasure in paying tribute to his efficient and progressive adminis- 
tration. His genial and courteous manner will ever be remembered by his 
associates in the school work of the city. In him the scholars had a warm 
friend, and the example of a consistent Christian gentleman. With his 
farewell report we appropriately close the first \olume of our school history 
as a city." 

* The editors arc indebted to Superintendent Soutinvortii for school reports and valu- 
aMe inlormation fmm which tliis and the succeedinj^ chapters iiave been mainly derive<l. 




Sanford Hanscom, M. D. 




William P. Hill. 



SOMERl'ILLK, PAST AM) J'NHSIiNT. 197 

The same committee says : " All the departments of our growing city 
are in the midst of important changes. The spirit of the age that demands 
such improvements as the electric light, the police signal system ... is 
equally exacting in the line of school work." . . . "The old is constantly 
called upon to give way for the new." ..." Although it is the policy of the 
board to try no experiments . . . yet some changes are being gradually made 
that the experience of other municipalities, similarly situated, have proved 
to be useful and desirable." 

" At the February meeting, the board unanimously elected, as the suc- 
cessor of Superintendent Davis, Mr. Clarence E. Meleney, of Paterson, 
N. J." ..." He comes to us as a man in the forefront of educational prog- 
ress." The administration of Mr. Meleney opened under favorable 
auspices. No one realized the importance of the work before him more 
than he, but he entered upon it with courage and enthusiasm, and by his 
judicious management secured the co-operation of teachers, committees, and 
the community. The same committee, above referred to, says : " Additional 
schoolroom accommodations is a subject that requires more or less space in 
every school report." 

With wise forecast they declare : " Nothing proves so attractive to the 
class of citizens we would invite to become residents of our city as good 
schools in commodious buildings." 

In the first report submitted the school board. Superintendent Meleney 
emphasized the advantages of larger buildings with a view to economy and 
eiTectiveness, and urged for the high school " increased facilities for labora- 
tory methods." He advised the "consideration of some plan by which 
greater inducement could be offered to our own teachers and to those whom 
it may be advisable to secure to fill vacancies." 

He recommended that only candidates "eminently fitted for the ser- 
vice " be considered in filling vacancies in the corps of teachers. He says : 
" Some portion of the kmdergarten material, much of the kindergarten 
method, and a complete infusion of the kindergarten spirit should charac- 
terize the elementary school." He advised that less time be devoted to 
arithmetic ; that a " slight change " in the course in geography be made, to 
render it " a science study, and not so much memory work." Additions 
were made to the list of supplementary reading books, which were divided 
into three classes, — elementary science, history and biography, literature. 

In general language he says: "Our school system should begin with 
the kindergarten and end with the manual training school and the high 
school, and the intervening grades should represent the steps upon which 
the pupils ascend from the one to the other. In adopting such a system, 
we would be following the lead of the most progressive cities in our own 
State and in others." 

Among the new teachers added this year (1888) were Miss L. A. Her- 
rick, teacher of drawing; Mrs. C. M. Coftin, and Miss Mary L. lioyd, of 
sewing. 

On February 25, the board voted that sewing be continued in the 



198 soMi:R\ii.i.i:. J'Asr .1X1) /'h'j:s/:\j. 

grammar schools as durinj; the past year ; that a room be fitted up for 
wood-work for boys of the high school and some grammar grades, and thai 
the sum of S2,ooo, to be expended for manual training, be included in 
the estimates for the fiscal year. 

Inder the head of " .School Accommodations," Mr. Meleney says : *' We 
are beginning to realize, as never before, that Somerville is a city in every 
sense of the word. The situation, unsurpassed for its availability, its pros- 
pect, and its sanitary and healthy conditions, the administration of its 
affairs, its reputation for temperance and morality, and its advantages for 
the education of our children, have attracted, in large numbers, people 
seeking new homes." 

" It becomes a w^ise people to so administer al'lairs as to meet the con 
ditions incident to rapid and permanent growth. '" . . . "In planning for 
the erection of new school buildings, the needs of the whole city should be 
taken into account. . . . Such a scheme might be laid out as would settle 
the whole (juestion of schoolhouses for many years to come, and each year's 
work would simply be a part of the general plan. ... In establishing the 
proposed general plan, it will be necessary to decide upon new centres and 
to consolidate the isolated schools." He declared that fifteen or sixteen 
different buildings would be preferable to the twenty-eight then in use. 
"The establishment of an Knglish high school," he said, "seems to be 
only a matter of time." 

In regard to the grammar and primary schools, he states that "the 
rooms are too large ": that instead of seats for fifty-six pupils, '•• there should 
not be over forty-two." 

Timely suggestions are made in reference to " .Manual \\ ork for Moys." 
'* Sloyd," "Kindergarten," "Training of Teachers," and "Physical Cul- 
ture." 

To introduce a system in the last named subject, he recommends that 
" an expert " be employed as early as possible to prepare the teachers in 
all grades to give the needed instruction to their classes and supervise the 
work. 

This somewhat full account of the administration of the schools for 
i.sss and iSSy, and the rather copious quotations from Mr. Meleney's report 
for that year, exhibit the spirit and tendency of leaders in educational 
thought in Somerville at that time, and equally the general trend of public 
sentiment along certain lines of advancement, toward the introduction of 
new subjects and new methods of instruction into the public schools in 
New Kngland and elsewhere. 

In I .S90, a course in mechanical drawing and construction for boys in 
grammar schools was adopted by the board, and introduced in September 
in all the various schools. 

-An exhibition of work in sewing and drawing was shown in liow street 
hall, which the superintendent declares "attracted much attention and re- 
tlected great credit upon the teachers." 

The committee on drawing and penmaiishij) reported that there had 




Fred. C. Baldwin. 




Frederick W. Shattick. 



SOMERl'lLLE, FAST AND rKKSEAT. 20I 

been "marked improvement" in the drawing " since the appointment of a 
special instructor." On March 31, the superintendent was authorized to 
engage Miss C. I. Livingstone as director of physical training. 

Mr. Horatio 1). Newton resigned his olfice as principal of the Morse 
school, to accept a position in Boston, and Miss Mina J. Wendell was pro- 
moted'to the head of the school. Mr. Herbert L. Morse, having been elect- 
ed to a Boston school, was succeeded by Mr. Fred W. Shattuck. Mr. Harry 
N. Andrews \vas elected to take charge of the ( ). S. Knapp school. Pre- 
liminary outlines for teaching elementary science were prepared by the 
superintendent, to aid in making a beginning ''upon which a permanent 
course may be laid in the future." 

Under the authority of the board, a training class was organized by the 
superintendent, and he declares the experiment a success in many ways, 
and asks for the establishment of a training class, with a definitely pre- 
scribed course of study and practice covering at least a year. 

In the Report for 1S91 is recorded the following, concerning school 
accommodations : — 

" The city has been doing grand work in the erection of new buildings, 
and the enlargement of old ones ; but we must not forget that the city is 
growing very fast, and that something must be done each year." ..." The 
city must not expect to pause in the building of schoolhouses." . . . "New 
buildings in all the school districts will be imperatively demanded within a 

few years." 

" Immediate steps towards the erection of a new high school " are de- 
clared necessary, and cogent reasons are urged therefor. The loss of the 
city by the resignation of Miss C. I. Livingstone is recorded, as is also that 
incurred by the resignation of Miss E. A. Herrick, whose work is highly 
commended by the committee on drawing and penmanship. 

The Year 1892. — " I'he new board organized with a new mayor in the 
chair, William H. Hodgkins, who had been a member twelve years ago by 
virtue of being the president of the common council. He greeted here sev- 
eral who had been his former associates on the school board, either having 
been in continuous membership or former members. His words of hearty 
sympathy with the work of education and his earnest determination to exert 
all possible effort for the schools were an inspiration." 

In February the following report concerning the English high school 

was adopted : — 

"That we renew and reinforce the report of the committee of 1S91, as 
follows : • That the city government be requested to erect immediately a 
schoolhouse, suitably arranged and furnished, for an English high school, 
provided also with accommodations for the department of industrial educa- 
tion, together with a hall sufficiently large for graduating exercises, etc' " 

A Sc/wol Exhibit was held on June 17 and 18 in the high school 
building, which formed an interesting feature of the Semi-Centennial Cele- 
bration. As director of music for the first four grades, Mrs. Gish Garwood 
was elected in May. In January, Miss Augusta L. Balch was chosen direc- 



202 SOMI:R\/LLi:. IWST .l\J) /'N/:sj:\j\ 

lur of diawiiii;. Miss llcrriik h;\\ ing resigned (in June. is<;i), to accept a 
position in the New N ork College for Iraining I'eachers. The superinten- 
dent mentions the enlargement of the Kdgerly school, and states that " six 
years ago there were one hundred and twelve classrooms in twenty-one 
buildings; now we have one hundred and forty-seven (occupied) rooms in 
twent\-two buildings." and some districts are still ''cramped for room." 

•• As compared with the erection of school buildings, the city has devel- 
oped much faster in the construction of dwellings and in population." 

In iS,S6, in the primary and grammar schools there were 44.7 pupils to 
a teacher on the average, and now there are 47. Several pages of the re- 
port are devoted to an exhaustive presentation of the necessity for a new 
Knglish high school, and the advantages that would result from such a 
school. Regarding sanitation and building, the work done during the 
year is reviewed, and the importance of continuing the '"good work so suc- 
cessfully begun," is emphasized. 

The superintendent expresses his pleasure in reporting that the teachers 
and friends of the Lincoln school " had formed an association to raise 
funds for the ])urpose of ornamenting the schoolrooms with works of art." 
He also mentions the fact that a "large sum of money had been donated 
l)y Hon. Kdward ("ilines. for the purchase of pictures for the (ilines school." 



CliAP'il-:R .Wll. 

HlSIOR\- OK THK StUool.S {^Coilil lldcti). 
SUI'EKIME.NDKNCV i H' (ioKDO.N .\. SoUTllWl )K 1 H. 

The School Board ok 1S93, organized with three new members. I'. \\ . 
(Gilbert, president of the common council, (leorge S. Poole of ward one, and 
Herbert A. Chapin of ward two. The committee renewed the recommenda- 
tion of previous boards for a new high school, and increased accommoda- 
tions for various sections of the city. 

On April 24. the mayor announced the death of ex-mayor Charles C. 
I'ope, and. on motion of Col. liingham, suitable resolutions were adopted. 
( )n May 29, Superintendent Meleney announced his election to the Teachers' 
College of New- \'ork, and the principalship of the Horace Mann School of 
( )bser\ation and Practice, and placed his resignation in the hands of the 
board, to take effect October 1. Later a vote was passed allowing the 
resignation to go into effect September i. 

On June 20, (Gordon .\. Southworth was unanimously elected super- 
intendent. 

( )n October 30. the board adopted unanimously a vote of recognition 
and commendation of the valuable service rendered the city of Somer- 
ville by Mr. Meleney. 

( )n June 26. a vote commending tiie work of John S. Hajes as prin- 
cipal of the i'orster school for a period of fifteen years was unanimously 
passed. 




MiNA J. Wendell. 







■'•> 



/^ 




S. Henry Hadley. 



SOMERl-lLLE, PAST AXD PKESENF. 



205 



On Auo-ust 28, resolutions appreciative of Mr. Southworth's twenty 
years' service as principal of the Prescott school were unanimously adopted 

by the board. , . at 1 

\ review of the work done for the schools, whde Supermtendent Mel- 
eney was at the helm, is presented in Mr. Southworth's report for 1S93. a 
portion of which is herewith presented. It is entitled 
"A Five \'kaks' RKiROsi'Kcr." 
" In their report for iSSS, the committee say, ' With the report of super- 
intendent Joshua H. Davis for 18S7, we appropriately close the first volume 
of our school history as a city.' Possibly the recent change in the superin- 
tendency of our schools may not inappropriately be said to mark the close 
of the second volume. At any rate it is the end of a chapter. 

^' The rapid growth of our population, the increase of our schools, and 
the efforts of our city to supply educational facilities equal to the demand, 
will best be seen by comparing the numbers in the two columns below : — 



No. of children between 5 and i 5 years of age 
Average number belonging to the schools . 
No. of schoolrooms, grammar and primary 

No. of teachers employed 

High-school pupils in December .... 

High-school teachers 

High-school rooms 

(rrammar-school graduates 

High-school graduates 

Amount spent for support of schools . . . 

Cost per pupil 

Estimated value of school property . . . 
Valuation of the city 128,765,400 



5.959 

5,488 

1 12 

139 

411 

10 

10 

243 

59 

5103,552 

18.87 

#428,554 



iSg3. 



7,191 

7,217 

152 

184 

618 

15 



Per cent of 
Increase. 



21 

32 

3^> 
o- 
50 
50 



10 





399 


64 


82 


39 


.•«.i 50,101 


45 


20.80 


10 


$636,725 


49 


41,820,700 


45 



" A comparison of the numbers in the preceding table shows that during 
the last five years the increase of school accommodations, with the note- 
worthy exception of the high school, has just about kept pace with the 
increase of children. Forty modern schoolrooms, well ventilated, well 
liahted and well adapted to use, have been added by the construction of 
the Knapp, Glines, and Pope schoolhouses, and by the enlargement of the 
Morse, Highland, and Edgerly buildings. Four rented rooms occupied in 
1 888 have been abandoned, the Brastow schoolhouse has been converted 
into an engine-house, and the Inion school building has been sold, making 
a net gain in the five years of thirty-seven schoolrooms, containing sittings 
for 1,946 pupils. The increase in the number of pupils has been 1,729. 

'' This comparison also shows that the rate of increase in the value of 
school property slightly exceeds the increase in the assessors' valuation of 
property in the city, while the expense of supporting the schools has m- 



2o6 so.u/:a'I7/././:. /'.ist .lyd /'nhskxt. 

creased in exactl\- the same ratio as the city's al)ility to pay as indicated h\- 
the value of real and personal property in the city. We obser\e further- 
more, that the gain in the number of graduates of the high school is greater 
than the gain in school population, and this too notwithstanding all iIk- 
disadvantages of its crowded condition." 

••The school board of Sonierville. . . . with the wise and prudent con- 
servatism that refuses to accept the new simply because it is new. . . . under 
the leadership of a courageous and enthusiastic educator, gradually intro- 
duced into our schools during tive years that we are reviewing, new forms 
and methods of development and training fully in accord with the general 
trend of education in these latter da\,s. 

■' The first movement in advance was the adoption of a system of in- 
dustrial drawing that experience has proved to be based on sound educa- 
tional principles. To train teachers and to direct the work, a skilled super- 
visor of drawing was employed. I'nder this expert direction, seconded by 
the enthusiastic co-operation of teachers and the growing interest of pupils. 
the system in all its details has become firmly established in our schools. . . . 
I'ollowing this came the introduction of manual training for girls, in the 
form of sewing. . . . Two teachers of sewing were employed and a systematic 
method of instruction adopted, which has since become widely known as 
the • Somerville system," and which competent judges declared to be the 
best exhibited at the W orld's Fair.'' 

In 1SS9, the miscellaneous calisthenic exercises given in some schools 
were replaced by the form of Swedish gymnastics known as the •' Ling 
system," which was regularly introduced into all grades. A competent 
supervisor was employed to direct the work and instruct the teachers. 

'•The introduction of the normal system of music into the primary 
schools, and the employment of a special director to supervise the work in 
them, marked an important advance in musical instruction in our city. . . . 
It has since been extended to the fourth and fifth grades." "Another 
modification of our school work that helps to put .Somerville in step with 
other municipalities is the introduction, to a limited extent, of natiin- stiiJ} y 
Though no special teacher for this work has been employed, he declares 
that •'an excellent beginning has been made." 

•' One other improvement has characterized the period we are consider- 
ing. It is the extension and systematizing of supplementary reading. . . . 
( )ur school reading now runs definitely along four lines, extending and sup- 
plementing the work in history, geography, science and literature." 

*• A statement of what has been accomplished during these five years 
would be incomplete without some allusion to the efTorts that have been 
made to secure additional accommodations for pupils that wish to pursue a 
high school course. . . . Sufiice it to say, that at last all these labors have 
been crowned with success." 

" Not to prolong this retrospect, mention only is made of the formation 
of historical class-libraries, which raise the study of history above the plane 
of merely memoriter exercises, and of the extension of history study down- 




Prospect Hill School. 
POPE School. 

CUMMINGS SCHOOL. 



HARVARD SCHOOL. KNAPP SCHOOL. 
BEECH STREET SCHOOL. 

LUTHER V. BELL SCHOOL. 




HODGKiNs School. 
Lincoln School. durell school 

Bingham School. 
Highland School. Burns School. 



S0MER17LLK, PAST AXD PRESENT. 209 

wards into lower grades ; of changes in nietliods of teaching geography, 
which require less time and compel observation and thought and secure 
expression in its various forms — words, maps and drawings; of attempts 
to co-ordinate language-study with work in geography, history, science, and 
literature ; and of the complete revision of the course of study, adapting it 
to the new lines of work." 

Concerning the teachers of the city, the Superintendent says : " Of the 
170 regular teachers," 104, or 60 per cent, have been appointed within 
five years. . . . The average term of service for our entire corps of regular 
teachers is six years." ..." Thirty-six per cent of all our teachers have 
had the professional training given by normal schools ; nine per cent are 
college graduates ; six per cent have had a year in some training school ; 
forty-eight per cent, about one-half of them, entered upon the work of teach- 
ing with the education which an ordinary high school gives — some of the 
latter came to us after considerable experience elsewhere." 

" The changed condition and constantly increasing requirements in our 
schools demand in teachers wider culture, broader knowledge, and profes- 
sional education." ..." Teaching is now everywhere recognized as a pro- 
fession." ..." The conversion of one of our largest schools into a training 
school seems to be a necessity forced upon us by the situation." . . . 
" These teachers in training would be excellent substitutes." . . . "Other 
cities have such schools, and their success is multiplying their numbers." 

" This portion of the report cannot be closed without bearing witness 
to the character of the teachers now employed by the city. In the main 
they are well equipped either by training or experience or both. They are 
conscientious, hard-working, enthusiastic, faithful. Their lot is not an easy 
one, notwithstanding the popular impression. They are expected to make 
the school. They have heard ten thousand times, ' The teacher is the 
school.' They know that the plastic material will forever bear the impress 
of their own characters. They must be what their pupils should become. 
. . . Teachers are assured that their fidelity and labor are appreciated, not 
only by school ofticials, but by the public, who realize their indebtedness to 
them, the most useful members in any community." 

" Prominent among the questions now agitating the pedagogical world 
is the one that has reference to changes in the grammar school curriculum. 
Extended college courses have led to increased demands upon fitting 
schools, and they, in turn, are inquiring whether some of the work done by 
them may not be done in grammar grades. Discussions upon the true 
educational value of different studies have given expression to widely dif- 
ferent opinions. . . . Experiments are making with a view to the evolution 
of what is best. Educational empiricists are advocating the introduction 
into the grammar schools of Latin, French, German, algebra, geometry, 
physics, chemistry, botany, zoology, geology, etc. The incoming of the 
new involves the exclusion of the old. for no one advocates lengthening the 
time by either daily or annual increase. Indeed, there are some that, with 
all the so-called enrichment, clamor for a reduction of the time spent in 



jio somj:a'17/. /./■:. I'.isr .i.\7> /'a-a.va.w. 

education. The various exercises of the schools are being tested to ascer- 
tain their relative educational and practical value, — their value in strength, 
ening and training the intellectual faculties as distinguished from their 
\ alue in informing and equipping the student for some specific employment 
in the future."' . . . 

'•The great majority of children do not go througii our schools, but 
drop out all along the way.'" ..." More than one-half our children are in 
the four lower grades, while but one-twelfth of them are in the high school, 
and one sixty-sixth in the highest, or graduating class." . . . "()ur pupils 
leave school to engage in commercial or [industrial pursuits, and what 
we do for the great majority of them must be done below high-school 
grade." 

(."oncerning Sc/itm/ Kxhlhits, the superintendent says : " Since our last 
report two exhibitions have been called for. one at the high school, June 17. 
1S92, where each pupil was represented by a garment of her own making, 
and one for the World's Fair at Chicago." In concluding his report, which 
is replete with important recommendations and suggestions, the superin- 
tendent says : '* The most pressing need is so to increase our school ac- 
commodations that every child of school age in Somerville may have a com- 
fortable seat five hours in every day in an uncrowded schoolroom whose air 
and light and heat shall be the best that modern science affords. This 
need supplied, the number of pupils assigned to a single instructor should 
be reduced to a teachable limit."' . . . '* I'pon the schools, more than upon 
all other agencies combined, depend our future welfare and prosperity." 

As the successor of Mr. Hayes in the I'orster school. Mr. I 'red C. 
lialdwin. of Manchester. X. H., was chosen. 

I'hk ^ kar I S(;4 was marked by the addition of four rooms to the 
Knapp school, four to the liingham, and the erection of a new four-room 
building at the corner of lieacon and Kent streets, which was named the 
••(leorge W. 1 )urell School," "in honor of an esteemed citizen, for eleven 
years a member of the committee. . . . one whose life and character furnish 
an inspiration and an example for the youth who shall in coming years 
share the advantages of the school bearing his name. ' 

The superintendent reported that there had been a gain of 430 children 
of school age, and made specific recommendations concerning additional 
accommodations. 

"TnK VK.AK 1S93, " says Superintendent .Soulhworlh, ' has l)een a pros- 
perous one in the school history of Somerville. " 

In regard to the expense of the school department, he says : — 

"While the amount spent for the maintenance of our schools seems 
large, it will be noticed . . . that among the thirty cities of the State we stood 
seventeenth in the percentage of taxable property paid for the support of 
public schools in 1S94."' 

Attention is called to the fact that '"there are 542 more children in 
Somerville to-day than there were a year ago."" 

"Of the 209 teachers in the empUjy of the rit\', three are in training 




Francis H. Raymond 




George w. Perkins. 



SOMERVILLE, FAST AND PRESENT. 



without pay ; forty-one have been newly elected during the year, 17 of these 
to positions in the English high school." 

Supt. Southworth says : "The long-talked of training school for Som- 
erville must soon become a reality." 

Under the head of Patriotic Instruction the superintendent 
mentions, as prominent among the acts of the Legislature of 1S95 affecting 
schools, the law requiring the uninterrupted display of the U. S. Hag upon 
or within schoolhouses while schools are in session, and says an attempt 
has been made to conform to this requirement. The most of our school 
buildings have been provided with flags by the generosity of public-spirited 
and patriotic citizens or the contributions of equally patriotic children. 

Miss Mary L. Patrick was chosen supervisor of drawing, and Miss 
Sarah I. Stanton teacher of sewing. 

Care of Schoolhouses. 

" When the last revision of the city ordinances was made, the janitors of 
schoolhouses were placed under the election and control of the Committee 
on Public Property. Previously they had been responsible to the School 
Board, as is the case in most towns and cities. The change has not been 
advantageous to the schools. The efficiency of the service has not been 
increased. The local School Committee are in constant communication 
with teachers and with schools, and to them the janitors should be respon- 
sible. Any needed criticism now reaches the ultimate authority in a very 
roundabout way, and reforms and changes are often slow in coming and 
unsatisfactory in character." 

The following tables are taken from the superintendent's report for 
1.S95 : — 

Annual Cost of Maintaininc, the Schools 

FOR A SERIES OF YEARS. 

Amounts are given to the nearest dollar and include what has been 
paid for maintaining day and evening schools of all grades. 





Average 


Instruction 


Water 










Year. 


Member- 
ship. 


and 
Supervision. 


and 
Light. 


Heating. 


Janitors. 


Supplies. 


Total. 


1885 


4,904 


$ 79,506 


$ 728 


$ 4,965 


% 4,000 


% 8,449 


$ 97,648 


1886 


4,985 


83,542 


624 


4,929 


4,194 


6,676 


99,865 


1887 


5,198 


86,713 


765 


6.475 


5,084 


7,526 


106,563 


1 888 


5,488 


88,967 


953 


7,121 


5,892 


7,421 


110,354 


1889 


5,95^^ 


96,466 


805 


6.081 


6,448 


9,903 


119,703 


1890 


6,486 


104,184 


1,004 


5.586 


7,539 


10,371 


128,684 


1 89 1 


6,502 


I 14,066 


1,047 


8,032 


8,544 


13,899 


145.588 


1892 


7,035 


124.232 


1,064 


7,148 


9,795 


12,944 


155,183 


1893 


7,217 


128,720 


1,014 


8,312 


10,160 


10,137 


158,333 


1894 


7,212 


132,919 


958 


9,673 


10,686 


10,919 


165,155 


1895 


7,617 


144,113 


1,398 


8,796 


11,581 


15,063 


180,951 



214 



SOMERl/l.l.i:, PAST Axn ]'Ri:si:\J. 



An.VIAI, CN»>I I'KK C.M'MA (»K M \1 \ lA I .N 1N(; Se HOOL.S 
loK A SEKIES OK VKAKS. 

[Based on the average membership.] 



fanilors. 
Water, 

Supe,visio„. I "--,-d 



Instruction 
and 



1SS5 
I SS6 
1SS7 

I sss 
I SS9 

I S90 
I Si; I 
..S92 

I S94 
1S95 



516.21 
16.76 
16.68 
16.21 
16.20 
16.06 

i7o4 
17.66 
1 7.S4 
18.43 
1 8.92 



; 1 .98 
1-94 
2-37 
2-54 

2. 2-1 

2.18 
2.71 
2.56 
2.70 
2.96 
2.86 



School 

-Supply 

Kxpeiisrs. 



SI. 72 
1-34 
••45 
■ •36 
1 .^.6 
1 .60 
2.14 
1.84 
1.40 
1.51 
1.98 



Total. 



Ratio of cost of 
Assessors' VaUia- school main- 
tion of Ciiy. tenance to 

valuation. 



519-91 


524.878,400 


20.03 


26,003,200 


20.50 


27.469.300 


20.1 1 


28,756.400 


20.10 


30.004,600 


19.84 


32,557.500 


22.39 


36,843,400 


22.06 


38.093,100 


21.94 


41,773,600 


22.90 


44,142.900 


23.76 


46,506.300 



.00392 
.00384 

.00388 

.00384 
.00399 
.00395 
.00395 

,00407 

.00379 
•00374 

.00390 



The average per cent of attendance for eleven years from iss; to 1895 
wa.s 94.1. 

Amount Spkm .\\xrAi.i.N' for New Schooi.housk.s, axd i-dk Rki'aik.s, 



KIC, 
FOR A SERIES OF YEARS. 



Ykar. 


. For New School- 
1 houses. 


For Repairs. 


For Maintaining 
.Schools. 


.\mount spent for all 
school purposes. 


1885 


' 519,185 


5 7,052 


5 97,648 


$ii3,«S5 


1 886 


'5o''5 


8,706 


99,865 


1 14.086 


18S7 


> 4,^39 


13.636 


106.563 


'35.03-'^ 


1888 


4.996 


'3,994 


"0,354 


' 29.344 


1 889 


20,167 


14.225 


■19,703 


' 54.095 


1 890 


IS^lll 


1 9, 1 68 


1 28,684 


223,627 


I 89 1 


84,902 


>4,<'^47 


i45-5«^^ 


^Al'ZZl 


1892 


I 2,679 


17,734 


J 55, '•'^3 


1 76,001 


•«93 


22,809 


12,440 


^I'^'ZZZ 


.93.582 


1894 


82,206 


*44.764 


'65,155 


292,125 


1895 


K-/,So 


15,651 


180,951 


284,282 



I'olTLATION OF So.MERVILLE, 



I S42 
I 850 
I 860 
I 865 
1870 
1875 



1,013 
3,540 
8,025 
9,366 
' 4,693 

21,594 



1880 
1885 
1890 
1895 
1 896 



-4,9'''5 
29,992 
40,117 
52,200 
55.000 



* Incluiliiii,' lieatiiij^ a])]>aralus in both Ilij^h Scln nl buildinj. 




Davis School. prescott school. 

Bennett school. 

EDGERLY SCHOOL. JACKSON SCHOOL. 




Glines School. 
Morse school. 



Cedar Street School. 



FORSTER School. 
Franklin School. 




Harry F. Hathaway. 




George M. Wadsworth. 




John s. Emerson. 



> 




v^H 

^^L^^^^^^^^ 




^ 3^^ 


^^^^^^^^^^^^^■k 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^': ^<'^ 


mi 


^^^^^^^^^^P>^^^P^^| 



Charles E. Brainard. 



S0MER17LLE, FAST AND PRESENT. 



217 



An interesting feature of the 
biographies of the distinguished 
named, which is hereto appended. 

Prescott, William H. Prescott. 
Franklin, Benjamin Franklin. 
Forster, Charles Forster. 
Brastow, George O. Brastow. 
Jackson, Andrew Jackson. 
Lincoln, Charles S. Lincoln. 
Bennett, Clark Bennett. 
Webster, Daniel Webster. 
Morse. Enoch R. Morse. 
Edgerly, John S. Edgerly. 



report is furnished in the portraits and 
citizens for whom schools have been 

L. V. Bell, Luther \'. Bell. 
Cummings, John A. Cummings. 
Davis, Joshua H. Davis. 
Burns, Mark F. Burns. 
Bingham, Norman W. Bingham. 
O. S. Knapp, Oren S. Knapp. 
Charles G. Pope, Charles G. Pope. 
J. T. Glines, Jacob T. Glines. 
G. W. Durell, George W. Durell. 
Hodgkins, William H. Hodgkins. 



Head Masters, Masters and Principals of Schooi 

Latin high school : — Besin 

George L. Baxter, head master 
Frank M. Hawes, master . 
English high school : — 

Charles T. C. Whitcomb, head master 
Winfred C. Akers, master 
Prescott, Samuel A. Johnson, master 
Edgerly, Charles E. Brainard, master 
Davis, P"rances Meldrum, principal 
Bell, Frederick W. Shattuck, master 
Cummings, Lydia J. Page, principal 
Prospect Hill, Helen Tincker, principal 
Oren S. Knapp, John S. Emerson, master 
Charles G. Pope, George M. Wadsworth, master 
Jackson, Annie E. McCarthy, principal . 
Bennett, Mary B. Smith, principal . 
Forster, Fred C. Baldwin, master . 
Glines, Mary E. Northup, principal 

Bingham, Harry F. Hathaway, principal 
Morse, Mina J. Wendell, principal . 
Franklin, Harriet A. Hills, principal 

Durell, Nora F. Byard, principal . 

Beech street, Elizabeth S. Foster, princip.il 

Harvard, Grace l\. Tibbetts 

Burns, Laura J. Brooks, principal . 

Cedar street, Lizzie A. Davies, principal 

Highland, George E. Nichols, master . 

Hodgkins, Arthur L. Doe, master . 

Lincoln, J. Louise Smith, principal 



ning of service. 
1867 
1879 

1895 
1896 

1893 
I 889 
1896 
1890 
1869 
1872 
1894 
1891 
1880 
1885 

i''^93 
1878 
1 890 
1S82 
1874 
1884 
1896 
1890 
1883 

1893 
1877 
1896 
1896 



2lS SOMllRl ILIJC. I'.ISJ- A.Xn rRESEXT. 

Sri I lAI. TkAi HKKS. 

Instructor in music in high schools, and tirades 7. s and <> of grammar 
schools. S. Henry Hadley. 

Supervisor of penmanship. \\ illiam A. Whitehouse. 

Super\ isor of drawing. Mary L. Patrick. 

SujK'rvisor of music, grades 1 to 6 inclusive, Mrs. dish (larwood. 

Teachers of sewing, Sarah I. Stanton, Mary L. Boyd. 

Sri'KKlM KNDKNTS I'Klok lt> 1X66. 

In 1.S57 Rev. (ieorge H. Emerson, who was a member of the school 
board, was elected to the office of superintendent at a salary of S300. Re- 
signing in 1S65. he was succeeded by O. S. Knapp, who had for ten years 
been principal of the Prospect Hill grammar school. In isr.'^., Mr. Knapp 
was succeeded by Joshua H. Davis. 

Superintendent Southworth has kindly furnished the following concern- 
ing the schools for 1S96 : — 

At the present time there are twenty-tive school buildings in Somer- 
\ille : two hundred and twenty teachers in day schools, and twenty-seven in 
evening schools. In the day schools there aie eight thousand eight hundred 
pupils, being an increase of nearly si.\ hundred over the number in iS(;5. 
There are about four hundred pupils in the evening schools. In |une, 
1.S96, three hundred and seventy pupils were graduated from the grammar 
schools, seventy-six per cent of whom entered the high schools. 

llii;ii .ScH()oi,>. 

As early as K)47, an ordinance was passed by the (General Court of 
.Massachusetts, making education universal and free, and requiring every 
town containing one hundred families to maintain a grammar school, — simi- 
lar to the high schools of the present time, — to be kept by a master who 
"should be able to instruct youth so far as they may be fitted for the 
university." 

By an act of 1826, "every town may, and every town containing five 
hundred families or householders, shall maintain a high school." In 1S51, 
measures were inaugurated by the citizens of SomerviUe, for the erection of 
a building and the establishment of a high school. The building was ded- 
icated .April 2.S, 1X52, and the school was organized on the 3d of .May 
following. .-Vfter an examination si.\ty-six pupils were admitted. In August 
following, twenty-two additional pupils entered the school. 

In .August, 1.S59, when Mr. Babcock assumed charge, it contained forty- 
three pupils. The course of study required three years. Pupils of the first 
class studied the Latin reader. None had been prepared for college, and 
none had been graduated. 

In 1S60, two courses of study of four years were adopted, one a regular 
course including the Latin language, the other a course preparatory to 
college. 



m 
O 



o 

C/) 

n 

O 
O 





C/) 

o 



o 



o 

O 
c/j 



a 

o 

LU 

o 



SOMERVILLK, PAST AXD I'RESENT. 



\2 1 



In 1S62, diplomas were awarded to six graduates. In 1870, an English 
or mercantile course was adopted. The advent of Mr. Babcock to the 
school was the introduction of a new and prosperous era. In his efforts to 
improve the school he was greatly assisted by Charles S. Lincoln, Esq., 
then a member of the school board. Ihider the judicious management of 
Mr. Babcock and his successor. Mr. Geo. L. Baxter, the school has con- 
stantly increased in numbers, efficiency and popular favor. In September, 
1S67, Mr. Babcock resigned, and Mr. Baxter became principal. The school 
then' contained one hundred and nineteen pupils. In 1872 (March 4), when 
the school held its first session in the new building, it contained one hun- 
dred and fifty pupils. The reports of committees and superintendents fur- 
nish abundant evidence that, under Mr. Baxter's management, the school 
has performed admirable work in preparing pupils for higher institutions of 
learning, and has pursued a liberal policy towards those who desired to sup- 
plement the grammar-school course by studies of practical value to them in 
their various contemplated pursuits in life. 

During the twenty years that it occupied the old building, eight hundred 
and fifty-three pupils were admitted to the school, and one hundred and 
forty-one received diplomas of graduation. Previous to Mr. Baxter's acces- 
sion to the school, fifty pupils had been graduated, only six of whom entered 
upon a college course. 

The constant growth in the number of pupils and of graduates, since 
1867, has been so remarkable that we present the following brief table of 
statistics illustrating it. 



Year. 


Largest number in High 
School. 


No. Graduated. 


No. who entered College or 
Scientific Schools. 


I 867 


119 


7 


4 


1872 


186 


21 




1877 


227 


37 


7 


1882 


280 


33 


14 


1887 


387 


53 


15 


1892 


S77 


80 


r 
-J) 


1893 


626 


82 


29 


1894 


691 


1 I [ 


JJ 


1895 


775 


'J- 


29 


1896 


855 


1 18 


-5 



By reference to the superintendent's report for 1895, page 95, we find 
that the per cent of the average membership of all the schools maintained 
by the high school has increased from 0.32 in 1867, and 0.75 in 1868, to 1.52 
in 1894, and 1.21 in 1895 ; or averaging the first two years above mentioned 
and the last two, the per cent for the years 1894 and 1895 is 1.365 as agamst 
0.535 for the years 1867 and 1868. 

The names of principals of the high school, and their terms of service, 

are as follows : — 



222 SOMI'.Rl/I.I.i:. /'.IS J- .I.V/) /'A'/:s/:xj\ 

Robert Bickford, from 1X^4 to 1S56. 
Samuel I. Pike, from 1S36 to 1S5.S. 
Isaac X. Beals, from 1.S5S to 1S59. 
Henry \\. Babcock. from 1S59 to 1867. 
Cieorge I,, liaxter, from 1S67 to i^c;;. 

In submitting the report of the committee on the high school for the 
year 1S90, Dr. A. H. Carvill said: "When this school first occupied the 
present high school building, March 4, 1.S72, it contained one hundred and 
fifty pupils and six teachers, a teacher to every twenty-five pupils. In 
September of this year, it contained four hundred and eighty-seven pupils 
and ten teachers, a teacher to every forty-nine pupils. . . . But even these 
figures do not represent the full amount of crowding in the lower classes, 
where the average is nearly sixty to a teacher." The report recommended 
the establishment of an English high school, and speaks of Principal Bax- 
ter's work closing with these words: " He had seen the school double in 
the number of pupils to each teacher, and his duties have more than 
doubled, and yet his students go into college and maintain their rank there- 
with the best schools in the State." 

The opening of the schools in September, 1S93, was marked by the be- 
ginning of the new English high school, which furnished the much-needed 
relief to the Latin high school. Concerning the latter, the superintendent 
speaks as follows : — 

Lai'ix Hk.ii School. 

"While our attention is naturally turned to the English high school as 
an illustration of the advantages resulting from a division of the high 
school, we must not lose sight of the gain accruing to our educational 
system in the superior opportunities that the pupils of the Latin school 
enjoy as a result of the change. ... Its two hundred and seventy-five 
members are all fitting for college. They are animated by a common pur 
pose, and stimulated to constant efforts by the desire to attain the standard 

of excellence required to reach their goal Already it is apparent that 

better work is being done, and more rapid progress made than ever before. 
The Somerville high school has always l^een conspicuous for the excellence 
of its college preparatory work, and it is saying much to remark tli.it in the 
future it will sur]3ass all previous records." 

I'rom Suj^erintendent Southworth's report is taken the following con- 
cerning 

TiiK Em.i.ish Hk.ii School. 

" The L nitarian church properly was purchased for the sum of 545.000, 
and an appropriation of ?So,ooo made for the construction of an English 
high schoolhouse. .Several plans were submitted by architects, and those 
of Hartwell, Richardson <.\: Driver were accepted, dround was broken 
December 5, 1S93, and the work progressed without serious interruption 
until the building was ready for occupancy, September 3. iS(>5. 

" The building is admirably planned and thoroughl\ constructed 





George L. Baxter. 




Charles T. C. Whitcomb. 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 



225 



throughout, thanks to the efficiency of the several committees and the 
unriagging zeal, energy, and watchfulness of Chairmen Andrews and Spar- 
row, to whom the city is greatly indebted for iheir labors in this con- 
nection." 

The entire cost of the building and furnishings was Si47-7-5-59- 
As principal of the school, the committee selected Mr. Charles T. C. 
W'hitcomb, principal of the Wakefield high school, on the 29th of Aprd. 
Mr. W'hitcomb is a native of Thomaston, Maine. He was graduated from 
x\mherst college in 18S3, and taught in Sandwich for five years, becommg 
principal of the Wakefield high school in 188S. The superintendent says : 
"His conduct of the affairs of the English high school up to the present 
time shows that the choice of principal was wisely made." 

ScJ^ooL Committee, 1896. 

Hon. Albion A. Perry, mayor, chairman ex officio. 

George E. Whitaker, president of common council, member ex officio. 

Term expires 
January, 

1897 

1898 

1899 

1897 

1898 

1899 

1897 

1898 

1899 

1S97 

189S 

1899 



Ward I. 



Ward II. 



Sanford Hanscom, 1 Webster street 

S. Newton Cutler, 28 Flint street . 

George S. Poole, 46 Mt. Vernon street 

Thomas M. Durell, 23 Bow street . 

Alvah B. Dearborn, 34 Bow street . 

Herbert A. Chapin, 41 Walnut street 
Ward HI. — Thomas S. Wentworth, 350 Broadway 

Frank H. Hardison, 192 Central street 

( Kiincy E. Dickerman, 85 Central street 
Ward IV.— Martin W^ Carr, 74 Craigie street . 

George A. Miles, 417 Highland avenue 

Giles W. Bryant, 296 Elm street 

Gordon A. Southworth, secretary and superintendent of schoo 

fice, English high school building. Residence, 40 (Greenville street 



Of- 



EDUCATIONAL INTKRKSTS, 

i;V ALKKRI i;. WlNsllIl". 



riiAi'ii.u will. 

JHK schools of Sonierville have maintained a good standard of excel- 
lence through all the years. They have never been poor nor have they taken 
highest rank in the opinion of experts. 'I'hey have neither been the first 
nor the last to introduce any new thing. The name of the city has never 
been attached to any special educational notion in administration, method 
or device, neither has it been connected witii conservative opposition to 
progj-ess. 

Sonierville has al\va\ s had her schools in good working order, has al- 
wa\ s done good work for her pupils, and the record of her youth and maidens 
in entrance examinations for college and in iinal honors in the university 
courses has placed her high school among the first three fitting schools of 
the country. So far as it is possible to estimate what the schools do for 
those who go out into the world rather than into college, no schools have 
done more by way of preparation for citizenship, for industrial or commer- 
cial life. To be a graduate of the Sonierville public schools is considered 
an honor, based upon what her graduates have done in business, professional 
and political life. 

( )riginally the only school in this territory was very rural, an out-of-the- 
way country school for the much scattered farm-people who lived " beyond 
the Neck." Charlestown was a thrifty town, the Neck was the boundary of 
the village, and the outlying farms were merely "beyond the Neck." Fifty 
years ago and a little more this rural folk became a town by themselves, a 
humble people in their own estimation, and slowly tliey came to independence 
of thought and action. 

Their schools first gave them confidence, courage and reputation. A 
single church sufficed for a time : but the four villages at once outlined them- 
selves about as many schoolhouses. which became at once village rallj-ing- 
points for the organization of churches as well as the education of children. 
The first reputations were made in connection with the schools. The first 
statesman, man of State reputation, was Dr. Luther \'. JJell, whose writings 
and political championship of education made him a close second to the 
illustrious Horace Mann,: and two of the earliest lawyers of the town 
( )ren S. Knapp and Charles S. Lincoln -attained the influence and repu- 
tation that gave them public confidence and practice through their efficient 
ser\ice as schoolmasters. 
226 




Rev. Albert E. Winship. 




George o. Proctor. 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 229 

What was so well begun has been well continued. One of the most 
successful mayors was one of Somerville's school principals, then a lawyer, 
Charles G. Pope. One of her successful physicians, a man of good profes- 
sional practice with influence in the affairs of public interest — Dr. H. P. 
Makechnie — stepped from the Lincoln school into the practitioner's otifice 
after due course of study and the requisite diploma. And Somerville's 
librarian, John S. Hayes, went directly from the school to the library. 



SCHOOLHOUSES. 

The public pride in the character and intelligence of the graduates of 
the schools and the influence of the teachers and graduates have simplified 
the question of appropriations for schools and school buildings- At first 
these were a necessity and appropriations were voted by the citizens with 
the same sense of duty and justice as that with which they repaired their 
country roads; but of late years the authorities have had regard to the 
luxuries as well as necessities, and there are no more beautiful buildings 
in the city than some of the schoolhouses whose adornments are artistic 
and appointments all that can be desired. 

In each of the original villages there are several large buildings, and all 
boundary lines between the villages have been obliterated by making new 
districts in the most unexpected places, erecting large schoolhouses which 
have grouped the children of difierent wards and sections with reckless dis- 
regard of inherited prejudices, and the end is not yet. So thick and fast 
comes the demand for new buildings that it is already a question where 
land can be found for all that must be built. No other New England city 
has ever had just such an experience in the housing of her scholars. So 
compact is the population and so rapid and universal has been the growth 
that her experience has been unique : and the crowning glory of the city 
seen far and near, are the companion high schools, the most distinguished 
looking buildings to be seen in the vicinity of Boston from any of the lines 
of public travel. 

The Teachers. 

It is a truism so old as to be almost absurd, that the teacher is the 
school. This is especially advantageous for Somerville, whose teachers 
have been exceptionally strong men and women. Mention has already been 
made of Messrs. Knapp and Lincoln, Pope, Makechnie and Hayes, men 
who have left teaching for more remunerative professions. Then there have 
been men like W. B. Stevens, called to Staten Island ; Alfred Bunker, Henry 
C. Parker, Herbert L. Morse, Edgar L. Raub, H. H. Newton, Harry An- 
drews and'other men called to Boston ; Frank F. Murdock, Adelaide Reed, 
and Miss Turner, who have been called to the State normal school at Bridge- 
water. Mr. F. E. Forest, of the high school is the leading criminal lawyer 
of Chicago and of the West. These are types merely of the men and women 
who have considered themselves promoted by their going. 



230 soMi:R\n.ij:, r.isj- .i.vn /'A'A.va'.w. 

Those who remain are not less worthy of nott. In tlic tliurclies of the 
city, in all religious organizations, in Masonry, Odd Fellowship, the Royal 
Arcanum and other fraternities, the teachers have been an important factor. 
A cleaner set of men. a nobler class of women are not to be found in any 
community. They are representative of the best reading and thinking, of 
the highest purpose and noblest aspiration of the city. 

The Slhooi. Boario. 

Somerville has been specially fa\ored in the men who have been 
willing to serve upon the school board, ll is a thankless task and one that 
offers no political preferment. It is a service with a mission rather than an 
office with a reward. In the case of Dr. Luther \'. IJell, it was a great ser- 
vice with a grand mission. In the entire history of .Somerville. no other 
name occupies so high a place in the niche of fame. It would be a lu.xurv 
lo write appropriately the story of his life, lie was the most eminent 
physician, the most influential man of affairs the city has ever produced, and 
occupies a prominent place among the educational celebrities of the .State. 
His school reports written fifty years ago are ne.xt to those of Horace 
Mann. 

Men like Oren .S. Knapp and Charles .S. Lincoln, e.x-teachers and 
leading citizens, gave much time to this service of their fellow men, each has 
a school named for him, an honor infinitely beyond that which attaches to 
the naming of a school for an official merely. In their case it recorded public 
appreciation of personal devotion to the cause of education. 

There have always been prominent persons from each ward, men or 
women, in whom the public has had such confidence that support of e\ery 
measure has been prompt and hearty. Among the many leaders of long 
and efficient service it may not be invidious to mention Hon. John Haskell 
Butler, Henry M. Moore. Dr. Sanford Hanscom. Norman W. Bingham, 
(,)uincy E. Dickerman, Prof. B. V. Brown, M. W. C'arr, and Dr. A. IL Car- 
vill. These are a few only of the man\ who have served term after term 
wisely and well. gi\ing to the schools their best thought and unwearied en- 
deavor. 

TlIK Sri'ERINTKNDKN IS. 

After all has been said by way of general praise, that which stands out 
clear as the day is the fact that the schools owe their pre-eminence to four 
men. Dr. Luther W Bell, Joshua H. Davis. George L. l>axter and Gordon 
A. .Southworth. Dr. Bell was the greatest educational character, but to Mr. 
Davis, long a member of the town school committee, and for more than a 
([uarter of a century the sujierinlendent, the city owes more than it can ever 
repay. 

The greatest service any one ever renders a community educationally 
is in the selection of efficient teachers. The great danger to the public 
school system has ever been the choice of incompetent teachers because of 
personal or political favoritism. To-day it is a recognized impropriety for 




Edmund S. Sparrow. 



^2s 








I 



LL IlILK B. I'1LL^BLRV 



SOMERriLLE, J'. 1ST AM) PRESENT. 233 

a member of the school board to insist upon his preference over the profes- 
sional judgment of the joint opinion of the superintendent and a principal : 
but in Mr. Davis' day there were no such recognized limits to propriety. 
Then the teachers were largely untrained, and local residence or committee 
favoritism counted for much ; and yet in these adverse conditions Mr. Davis 
had the wisdom and the skill to get the best available talent, to place the 
good to the best advantage and the indifferent to the least disadvantage. 
Ideals of teaching were quite different twenty years ago from what they are 
to-day, and yet Mr. Davis had standards so high and his tests were so rigid 
that results were attained that seem now impossible under such conditions. 
I'he knowledge of the children was exact, facts and processes learned were 
retained and the pupils had themselves well in hand in their thinking and 
in the expression of their thought. 

No three men ever worked together more perfectly than Mr. Davis, 
Mr. Baxter, principal of the high school for more than a c^uarter of a cen- 
tury, and Mr. Southworth, principal of the Prescott grammar school for 
nearly twenty years. Mr. Baxter has trained an entire generation, has 
fitted for college practically every Somerville boy and girl that has ever 
enjoyed the advantages of a higher education. Men now in the pulpit and 
at the bar, in medicine and dentistry, in professors' chairs and in the enjoy- 
ment of literary honors, men of business and women of the best society, 
people scattered over the world on missions and in missions did all their pre- 
paratory work under his guidance. With high ideals, close and accurate 
scholarship, a born trainer, Mr. Baxter placed the Somerville high school at 
the front when he became its principal, and it has never lagged an hour 
through all the years of his administration. 

But to Mr. Gordon A. Southworth has come the greatest opportunity. 
He was long the leading grammar school principal in the city, if not in the 
suburbs. A great teacher, a genius in administration, an inspiration, a per- 
sonal and professional force, he left the impress of his mind and purpose 
upon a multitude of girls and boys ; while in grammar school work he 
prepared a series of language books and arithmetics. This working out of 
ideal into definite shape, materializing notions in a system of teaching, broad- 
ened his professional vision and intensified his force so that he was admirably 
fitted for local leadership and a representative position when he was chosen 
superintendent of the Somerville schools. 

Mr. Clarence E. Meleney succeeded Mr. Davis, and in five years 
he transferred the system from the old to the new in method and spirit. 
This work has to be done sooner or later for every city. It matters not 
how efficient the work or how good the results under the old regime, the new 
must be substituted, and Mr. Meleney made the transfer with much skill, 
so that Mr. Southworth presides over entirely different schools from those 
that Mr. Davis passed to Mr. Meleney. 

Since Mr. Davis' retirement an entirely new series of school buildings 
have arisen all over the city, and a new English high school, with every 
modern appointment in laboratory and kitchen, with popularized courses of 



234 soMiiRin.i.i:. r.isT .ixn /'A'/:s/:.y/: 

study. ;xn 1 a new professional equipment of tiie hij^hest order, has seated 
itself in Mr. Baxter's school yard. Mr. Whitcomb, the latest professional 
accession, is an educational force of which any city mitjht well be proud, 
and .Sonierville has taken every occasion to show her appreciation of the 
character of the work in the English high school. 

Somerville's educational advantages are due not alone to her teachers, 
school boards and superintendents, but in large measure to her citizens who 
are neither rich nor poor, but of that best of all social conditions, the mid- 
dle classes. .No private school or academy has ever prospered in the city, 
and no community of the size has contributed less to the patronage of such 
schools in neighboring cities. There is a large parochial school in the city, 
but its establishment was in no sense due to criticism of the public schools, 
and every effort has been made to have the educational character of the 
school conform so far as possible to the public school standards. 

The people have confidence in the school authorities, respect the 
methods and spirit of the teaching and supervising forces, and are proud of 
the schools of Somerville. 'J'he record is one of whicli all are proud and 
the promise is all that the most ambitious can desire, and the educational 
spirit of the city is certain to eventuate in civic power. 




Nathaniel Dennett. 




Frank E. Merrill. 



HISTORY OF THE WATER-WORKS. 

BY FRANK E. MERRILL. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

As Somerville has always been dependent upon neighboring munici- 
palities for its water-supply, it becomes necessary to treat the subject-mat- 
ter of this chapter somewhat comprehensively and touch upon features 
which might, otherwise, be considered out of place in a history of our local 
water-works system. 

Although the need of a proper supply was for many years acknowl- 
edged, the small population of the town precluded the possibility of its 
taking advantage of any opportunity of obtaining an independent supply 
from the several sheets of water which lie within a comparatively short 
distance of its borders. 

The first organized company to do a water business within the limits of 
the town was the Cambridge Aqueduct Company, which was chartered in 
1837, to furnish water to the residents of the lower section of Cambridge- 
port, and a tract of land on the southerly slope of Central Hill was pur- 
chased for the control of the abundant springs then existing in that locality. 
This water was conveyed to Cambridge through wooden logs bored out to a 
diameter of four inches, and many persons are now living who recall the ex- 
cellent service done by that somewhat primitive system, as well as the ex- 
ceptionally pure quality of the water furnished by these springs. At that 
period Somerville, or, as it then was, Charlestown, was a sparsely settled 
farming district, but the residents in that section through which the pipes 
were laid appreciated the luxury of having the water brought into their 
houses, and a number of them are recorded as becoming consumers and so 
remaining until the discontinuance of the system. 

In 1S42, the town of Somerville was set off from Charlestown with a 
population of about 1000, the most of whom were dependent on wells and 
springs for water for their household uses. As early as 1849, the mother 
city began to experience the advantages of a piped system of water sup- 
ply, as at that time the passage of a legislative act was obtained authorizing 
the city of Boston to supply East fioston with Cochituate water. This pipe 
line, when constructed, passed through Charlestown, and the act required 
hydrants to be erected along its course : these were intended to be used for 
fire purposes only, but, to some extent, they were made available for domes- 
tic service. I'he partial benefits obtained from this source finally led the 
authorities to efforts to procure an abundant supply for fire, domestic and 

237 



23S soMi.Riii.i.i:, iwsr .\xn I'Ri-.si.xr. 

manufacturing purposes. In 1S60, application was made to the legislature 
for the grant of powers to enable the city of C'harlestown to obtain a supply 
of water. This met with much opposition from land-owners, towns and 
cities, as well as from ship-owners and Iniilders from Medford and East 
Boston, and e\ en from the merchants of Boston in behalf of Boston Harbor, 
which it was feared would be injuriously affected if the proposed dam should 
be erected at the outlet of Mystic Lake, thus stopping the How of fresh 
water from the ponds. In iS^i. the act was passed under which the present 
works were constructed, and the city was authorized to sell its surplus water 
to the towns through which the pipes should pass. 

As a large portion of these works are located in Somerville and are the 
present source of Somerxille's water-supply, it seems proper in this place to 
gi\e a brief description of the Mystic water-system, although, at that time, 
it possessed no direct interest for Somerville. 

The legislative act referred to authorized the city of ("harlestown to 
take water from the northerly division of Mystic pond, and permitted the 
waters to be raised seven feet above the original level of the pond. 

Mystic Lake is a familiar name to all residents of Somerville. but not 
all are acquainted with the picturesque beauties of that sheet of water which 
has served our homes for a generation, and fewer still are informed regard- 
ing those features which are interesting from a water-works point of view, 
i'he northerly portion of the lake from which the water is taken is situated 
in the towns of \N'inchester and Arlington and the city of Medford, and is 
about four miles distant from Somerville city hall. It has an area of about 
two hundred acres when Howed to the level authorized by the act, and a 
storage capacity at that level of 3So,ooo,ooo gallons of water. The area of 
the country forming the drainage basin is thirty-one scjuare miles, and the 
lake receives water from springs abounding in its vicinity and from streams 
rising as far away as Reading and Wilmington. The daily yield of the lake 
has been estimated at 30.000.000 gallons. The ])Otable ciualities of Mystic 
Lake, in the early days of its use as a water-supply, were considered excel- 
lent, but the great increase of population along its watershed in recent 
years has had its natural effect and produced a marked deterioration. Much 
good has been accomplished by the P.oston Water Board in conjunction 
with the Metropolitan I'ark Commission and other authorities, in remo\- 
ing sources of pollution which had sprung up along its borders, but it is 
doubtful if the water ever regains its former purity. 

'i"he dam, at the outlet of the lake, is fifteen feet wide on top. and is. in 
height, eleven feet above high-water mark of Boston harbor, or four feet 
above the authorized limit of flowage. The conduit which conveys the 
water from the lake to the pipe-chamber on the north bank of .M\stic Kiver 
is 7.453 feet in length, and is constructed of hydraulic brick masonry eight 
inches in thickness, five feet eight inches in height and five feet wide. The 
total fall to the pipe-chamber is nine inches, and the conduit is calculated to 
convey 35.000,000 gallons each twenty-four hours. From the pipe-house the 
water is con\eyed in two thirty-six-inch iron pipes under the .M\ stic Kiver 








...*/-^' 



George D. Wemyss. 




George a. Kimball. 



SOMHRIJLLE. PAST AXD rRESEXT. 24 1 

to the pump-well in the engine-house, whence it is raised by the powerful 
engines to an elevation of 147 feet, through a thirty-inch pipe, to the reser- 
voir on College Hill, a distance of 3,277 feet. 

'I'he reservoir, which lias l^ecome a familiar feature among Sonierville's 
attractions, is situated on ("ollege hill. It is both receiving and distributing 
in its scope. In shape it is a parallelogram 350 feet by 560 feet, and its 
water-surface covers an area of about four and one-half acres. It istwenty- 
tive feet in depth and is divided into two portions nearly equal in contents, 
by a partition wall fi\-e feet below high-water line. At high-water mark the 
capacity is 26,244,41:; gallons. 'I'he \o\> of the embankment is 150 feet, the 
top water-line 147 feet, and the bottom water-line 124 feet above high-water 
level of the harbor. ihe embankments are nineteen and one-half feet in 
width at the top, are laid out with concrete walks and furnished with seats, 
making an attractive j^romenade to which many resort to enjoy the beautiful 
scenery spread out in all directions. 

From the reservoir the water is conducted through tv.o pipes, the first 
one laid being of cast iron, twenty-four inches in diameter, and the other, 
laid in 1S70, being thirty inches in diameter and constructed of wrought 
iron sheets, securely riveted, lined inside with cement and imbedded in a 
thick layer of the same material. These pipes deliver the water to the 
Charlestown city system and to the distributing pipes of Somerville. 

After the necessary preliminaries, work was commenced on the con- 
struction of the reservoir on College hill, then called Walnut hill, September 
27, 1862, with appropriate ceremonies. Considerable progress was also 
made in that year on the contract for the dam and conduit. The construc- 
tion of the engine-house was commenced in i.sr)3 and completed in 1S64, 
and in the latter year the water was brought into Charlestown amid great 
rejoicing and a general celebration of the event. 

vShortly after the completion of its supply main the city of Charlestown 
made a connection in Broadway opposite Franklin street, and laid its pipes 
through l-"ranklin. Pearl, Myrtle and Washington streets to the McLean 
Asylum, this being the first introduction of Mystic water to the houses of 
Somerville. During the three following years quite a large territory in East 
.Somerville and Winter Flill was brought into the Charlestown system, the 
expense of the work being borne first by the city : subsequently the cost of 
the pipe and laying was borne by the city, and the expense of trenching was 
paid by the parties for whose convenience the pipe was laid ; and finally the 
entire cost was required from the parties supplied with water. Later these 
pipes were purchased by the town from the parties who had been assessed 
for their construction. 

By the year 1S67 the town of Somer\ille had arisen to the importance 
of a prosperous community of about 12,000 inhabitants, imbued with the 
spirit of enterprise and mindful of the necessity of soon procuring from 
some source an abundant supply of water for the protection of their homes 
from fire as well as the enjoyment of its use for domestic purposes. 

The subject was introduced to the inhabitants of the town by a petition 
presented at a town meeting held November 3, 1867; at this meeting the 



242 SOMl-.RllLLl:. r.\SI .\.\n I'KISF.XT. 

town took its first action in le.nanl to tlie introduction of Mystic Lake water 
when it was "\oted: That Xathan lufts, Jr., Aaron Sarjjjent, George C). 
Hrastow. S. A. Carlton. Christopher K. Kynies, Ihomas ("unnint^^ham and 
Levi Russell be a committee to take the whole matter of contracting with 
the city of C'harlestown for a supply of Mystic water into consideration, 
confer with the Charlestown authorities, propose some plan and report at 
the next town meeting." 

At a town meeting held April 13, isr.s, the committee submitted a full 
report on all the matters delegated to them, and recommended the election 
of a committee to be called the " Somerville Mystic Water Committee," with 
authority to make any and all arrangements in regard to the introduction, 
distribution and supply of the water. 

This report was accepted and adopted, an appropriation of ^30,000. 00 
was made, and Aaron Sargent, C. K. Rymes, R. A. \inal. R. K. Demmon 
and Cutler Downer were elected to constitute the first " Somerville Mystic 
Water Committee.'" 

The tirst work of the committee was to procure the necessary legislation 
to authorize the making of a contract with the city of Charlestown for the 
use of Mystic water, and permit the laying of the distribution pipes. 

The desired act (Chap. 202, Statutes of 1S68) was passed by the legis- 
lature and approved .May 14, 1S6S, the first section being as follows: — 

"The town of Somerville is hereby authorized to lay, construct and 
maintain within the limits of said town such pipes, aqueducts and structures 
in connection with the water-works or aqueducts of the City of Charlestown 
as may be requisite for the purpose of supplying water to the inhabitants 
of said town for the extinguishment of fires and for other uses." 

Immediately upon the ixissage of this act the committee made appli- 
cation to the city council of Charlestown for the terms upon which that city 
would supply this town with water, and reported their progress at a town 
meeting held September iS. 1.S6S. At this meeling a proposition was 
strongly advocated for the establishment of an independent system of water- 
works in connection with the waters of Spot I'ond in Stoneham. five and 
one-half miles distant from the town line, or of Lake (hianapowitt in Wake- 
field, seven and one-half miles distant. After much discussion these schemes 
were decided unfeasible and it was " ^'oted : That the town will introduce 
water in pursuance of the authority granted to the town " by the act above 
referred to. 

The contract with the city of Charlestown for the use of Mystic water 
was made on September 21, iSr.S. F.y the terms of the contract the city of 
Charlestown agreed to furnish the water, collect the water-rentals, and to 
pay to the town of Somerville a percentage of the rents collected in Somer- 
ville, on the following sliding scale, viz. : — 

On annual receipts up to 520.000 '5 P^''' cent. 

from 20,000 to .■>3o,ooo ... 20 

from 30,000 to 40,000 ... 23 

From 40,000 to 50.000 . . -3° 

( )n the amount in excess of S50.000 . 40 




William Franklin Hall. 



.^- ' 




Edward Foote. 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AXD PRESEXT. 245 

The town of Somerville on its part agreed to lay and maintain the dis- 
tribution pipes and fixtures and to pay the same rates for the use of the 
water as was charged to the inhabitants of Charlestown. By the terms of 
the agreement tlie payment for the use of fire-hydrants was fixed at the sum 
of $2S for each 350 inliabitants based on the semidecennial census. 

( )n August 14 a contract was made with the Patent Gas and Water Pipe 
Company of Jersey City for furnishing the pipe and gates for the season's 
use ; on Septeml^er 1 1, a contract was made for the trenching, and on ( )cto- 
ber 8, 1.S6.S, the work of laying the pipe was connnenced by the town of 
Somerville. Connection was made with the Charlestown pipe in Broadway 
at the Medford town line and the pipe was continued through Medford and 
Central streets, Somerville avenue and \\'ashington street to the grounds of 
the McLean Asylum, there connecting with the pipe which had been laid 
by the city of Charlestown. This pipe in Medford and Central streets was 
twelve inches in diameter, was made of wrought iron lined with cement, 
and it is an interesting fact that this section of pipe, the first that was laid 
by the town, is to-da}' performing satisfactory service after a period of 
twenty-eight years. 

This kind of pipe was laid up to the year 1884, when, on account of in- 
creasing trouble from bursts, and on account of the decline in cost of iron 
pipe, it was abandoned, and cast-iron pipe has been used exclusively since 
that time. 

In iS(k; the pipes laid in Somerville by the city of Charlestown were 
purchased from that cit)-, and in the following year a line of pipe which had 
been laid through Sacramento street to the American Tube Works was 
purchased from the city of Cambridge, thus bringing the entire system 
under the control of the town authorities. 

The rapid growth of the town rendered a change of organization desir- 
able, and in 1872 the city of Somerville was incorporated. On the 13th day 
of January, 1872, by provisions of Chap. 182, Acts of 1871, the " Somerville 
Mystic Water Board " springs into existence, composed of five members, 
each elected annually by joint ballot of the city council in convention. 

On July I, 1886, after many years of agitation and efi'ort on the part of 
the several boards, a modification of the water contract was secured, by the 
terms of which the city of Boston, who had meanwhile assumed the Mystic 
water-works through the annexation of Charlestown, agreed to rebate to the 
city of Somerville fifty per cent of the water-rates collected from Somerville 
consumers. 'I'his increased the city's revenue from this source from 
#21,444.91 in 1885 to #42,650.57 in 1S86. 

While the larger portion of the city's territory was, by this time, enjoy- 
ing the advantages of an abundant water-supply, the high lands, embracing 
some of the otherwise most favored localities, were deprived of a satisfac- 
tory service, the height of the water in the reservoir being insufiicient to 
give the pressure necessary to supply residences in these elevated sections 
of the city. In 1889, in consequence of these conditions, plans were per- 
fected for the erection of a high-service plant, and in the following year the 



246 SOMl:R\'ILLI\ IWST AXl) J'RI:Si:\T. 

svstem was put into operation, and in its results has proved the wisdom 
and foresigiit of those who urged its construction and carried it through to 
a successful termination. 

'l"he plant comprises a brick engine- and boiler-house, one high-duty 
pumping engine, two steel boilers, a wrought iron standpipe. and a system 
of force and distributing mains ranging in size from fourteen-inch to six- 
inch. 

The portion of the city now covered by the high-service system com- 
prises 309 acres, or about one-eighth of the entire land area of the city. The 
water is draughted from the thirty-inch main in IJroadway near ("edar street 
to the pumping station one-eighth mile distant. It enters the pump under 
an average pressure of thirty-eight pounds, and is thence raised to the stand- 
pipe on the summit of Spring Hill. The elevation of the base of this stand- 
pipe is 144 feet above tide-marsh level. The erection of the standpipe was 
commenced September 9, iSSc;, and was completed November 23 of the same 
year, and was filled with water the first time on March i, 1890. The stand- 
pipe is 30 feet in diameter, 100 feet in height and has a capacity of 52S.76.S 
gallons. 

The pump was made by Henry R. Worthington, New N'ork, and is a 
compound condensing engine with two fourteen-inch high pressure and two 
twenty-four and a half-inch low pressure cylinders, with two fourteen-inch 
double-acting water plungers of eighteen-inch .stroke. The contract called 
for an engine of 2,000,000 gallons daily capacity and a dut\ of 50,000,000 
foot-pounds. At the trial the engine developed a duty of over 64,000,000 
and a capacity of over 2,200.000. The steam was generated in one sixty-inch 
boiler, and this was in operation until 1 894, when a duplicate boiler was 
erected for alternation. The total cost of construction of the high-service 
plant was about 5-5,000. 

March i 1, 1S91, passage was obtained of a legislative act reducing the 
membership of the Somerville Mystic Water l'>oard from five to three, to 
be appointed by the mayor, subject to confirmation by the board of alder- 
men, the term of office to be three years, one member being appointed an- 
nually; thus ensuring a practically permanent and efficient organization. 
The present Board consists of George 1). W'eniyss, president: Cieorge A. 
Kimball, and W'm. Franklin Hall. 

'I'he several boards who have had charge of the affairs of the water de- 
partment since its organization have, with the co-operation of the town and 
city governments, been enabled to keep pace with the rapid growth of the 
city and have met all reasonable demands for the extension of the system. 
This has resulted in the occupancy of a very large portion of the city's ter- 
ritory, and the network of pipes of the Somerville water-system covers 
practically the entire district. 

Startmgwith two and a half miles of pipe, nineteen hydrants and twenty 
stop-gates in 1S6S, the city now possesses a system comprising about 75 
miles of mains, 5S miles of service connections, 700 hydrants, 900 stop-gates, 
50 water-posts, s drinking fountains and 9,000 service taps. 




Walter S. Barnes. 




/ 




Frank G. Lombard. 



SOMKRJ-/LLE, PAST AXD PRIiSI-XT. 249 

The amount of bonds issued on funded debt account for the construc- 
tion and maintenance of this system has been $1,005,000, and payments have 
been made, to January i, 1S96, of f6S3,5oo, leaving the water indebtedness 
at that date $321,500. Since 1S92 no water bonds have been issued, the 
entire expenses of the department, including; its interest account and reduc- 
tion of its funded debt, being paid from its earnings, and no call is made on 
the tax-payers for its support. 

The expenditures for construction account to January 1. iS</,. have been 
$667,976.93, and the total revenue from sale of the water up to that time was 
$795,466.94 ; the water income for the first year being $91 1.3';, ^^"fl for ^^')':> 
$89,431.46. These figures well serve as an indication of the growth and 
prosperity of our city. 

The great influx of population to the commercial centers produces new 
conditions ; new conditions demand new resources, and what served well 
the requirements of our fathers does not satisfy the necessities of their 
children, lliis is an era of progression and evolution, and the Mystic water- 
system is destined to succumb to the ever onward march of progress and 
will soon become a thing of the past. It has well played its part in the 
prosperity of our city, but its safe capacity for supplying our homes with 
water has already been exceeded, and its absorption into the greater and 
more comprehensive scheme which the early future has in store for it will 
not be regretted. 

Already we hear the sounds of preparation and soon we shall receive 
the full benefits of that gigantic enterprise undertaken by the Common- 
wealth to bring down the head waters of the Nashua to supply the necessi- 
ties of her chief city and its outlying municipalities. 

Somerville looks forward to the realization of this grand scheme of 
water-supply with almost as much anticipation as, in the earlier days, she 
regarded the introduction of the Mystic water ; and this fact justifies a brief 
outline of its important features. 

The agitation for an increased water-supply for the district included 
within a ten-mile limit of IJoston led to the formation of the Metropolitan 
Water Board, who have, by legislative enactment, acting in behalf of the 
Commonwealth, formulated a plan to take the water of the south branch 
of the Nashua river from a point in the town of Clinton, Mass., and convey 
the same to the inhabitants of the so-called Metropolitan District, of which 
Somerville is an important factor. The streams which unite in West Boyls- 
ton to form the south branch of the Nashua river take their rise on the 
easterly and southerly slopes of Mt. Wachusett, in the central part of the 

State. 

The plan contemplates a storage reservoir in Clinton which will wipe 
out the present location of a thriving town, four cotton-mills, four churches, 
six schoolhouses and nearly seven miles of railroad, and will require 1,711 
inhabitants to seek other homes. 

The reservoir is to be nearly eight miles long by two miles maximum 
width, with a shore line of over thirty-five miles, its surface of 6.56 square 



2 50 SOMERl'/I.I.E. r.isr AXn I'RI-.SJ-.XT. 

miles forming the largest body of fresh water in Massachusetts. Its maxi- 
mum depth is 129 feet with an average of \(-> feet, and it will contain 63,06s,- 
000.000 gallons, its capacity being greater than that of any existing reser- 
voir, and four times that of all the Boston water-works reservoirs combined. 
The elevation of the level of full reservoir is 3.S5 feet above the level of high 
tide in Boston harbor. The entire cost of constructing this reservoir is 
estimated to be about 59.000,000. 

The dam to hold back this enormous body of water is to be constructed 
of solid masonry across a narrow gorge ; it will be 1.250 feet in length, i 2«; 
feet in height above the level of the ground, i 19,'i feet in thickness at its 
foundation and 19 feet thick at the water-level. 

The water is to be conveyed from the reservoir through an aqueduct 
eleven feet six inches wide by ten feet six inches high, with a daily deliver- 
ing capacity of 300.000.000 gallons, for a distance of s.S; miles, nearly two 
miles of which is in tunnel: thence by open channel 3.03 miles to Reservoir 
No. 5 in Southboro. from which place it will How through existing aqueducts 
and reservoirs to the reservoir at Chestnut Hill. At this point the water 
which is destined to supply the North Metropolitan Districtwill be lifted by 
three high-duty low-service pumps, each of 40,000,000 gallons daily capacity, 
to a height of thirty to forty feet, whence it will flow through two forty-eight- 
inch iron pipes to -Spot Pond in .Stoneham, which will serve as an equalizing 
and distributing reservoir. On the line of one of these mains, near Spot 
Pond, is to be erected a pumping station for the entire northern high-service 
district, which will be equipped with high-duty engines of great capacity. 
The reservoir to be used in connection with this branch of the system is to 
be located in the Middlesex Fells, is to have its water-surface 270 feet above 
high-tide level, and is to contain about 35,000.000 gallons. From this reser- 
voir the highlands of our city will derive their water-supply, and the lower 
sections will be served direct by the forty-eight-inch pipes, one of which will 
pass through Willow avenue in West Somer\ille and the other through 
I'nion square and Walnut street, on their way to Spot Pond. 

Although the main desideratum is pure water in abundant quantity. 
Somerville expects to enjoy from this system the subsidiary advantages of 
increased pressure in its local system ; cutting off the expense of maintain- 
ing a local pumping station : increase in water revenue due to our ability to 
secure more favorable terms than are at present enjoyed ; and the removal 
of a certain feeling of prejudice against our city which has prevailed to 
some extent on account of the unfavorable quality of our present water- 
supply. 

Somer\ille's interest in the .Mystic system will cease by legislative enact- 
ment on the first day of January. 1S98, and she will then become a consumer 
in this great Metro]5olitan Water-System. 




ISAAC Story. 




^* 







A 



John Haskell Butler. 



POLICE DEPARTMENT AND POLICE COURT. 

i;V WILLIAM E. BRIGIIAM. 



CHAPTER XX. 

The long-continued depredations of incendiaries led to the organization 
of a regular police force in .Somerville at a time when no householder could 
lie down to sleep at night without an anxious fear that his own might be 
the property which, without warning, would go up in tiames, kindled by the 
torches of a noted gang that had kept the town in terror for years. The 
regular constabulary had performed police duty exclusively for more than 
twenty years after the incorporation of the town, or until firemen and citi- 
zens were compelled to do their own watching to prevent incendiarism. 

For the better regulation of the temporary watchmen thus informally 
employed, a police board was organized, June 19, 1865, with Town Consta- 
ble Horace B. Runey as chairman and Jairus Mann, now city messenger, and 
who has been a constable of Somerville since 1S5S, as secretary. The citi- 
zens of the town thought they had handled the liciuor question quite sucess- 
fully when, in iSC)3, the authorities had induced the forty-three liquor dealers 
of Somerville to agree in writing to sell no more in violation of the law ; but 
the burning of property necessitated more stringent measures, and the police 
board urged the establishment of a permanent night-watch, stating that 
" The officers of this town have been upon duty night after night, for weeks 
together, and some of them night and day also, for many days in succession." 

September 6. 1867, Robert R. Perry and, soon afterward, James Hanley 
were appointed a permanent night-watch, to aid Captain Runey, and the 
town appropriated, in place of its former annual " Selectmen's Incendiary 
Fund " of $5,000, the sum of $2,700 for police maintenance. In 1868 Melville 
C. Parkhurst was added to the night-force: two men were added in 1S69 
and in 1870 two more. About this time a day-patrol was established, and 
in 1870 the town was redivided into seven police districts, a night-patrol- 
man was assigned to each, and the men were put upon fair salaries. 

The force was reorganized in 187 1 and enlarged to thirteen men. and a 
set of rules for its control was adopted, emergency only having been its 
governing factor before that year. Chairman Austin Belknap of the Board 
of Selectmen meanwhile had kept his eye upon the work of Melville C. 
Parkhurst, fresh as he was from the hardy experience of war, and having 
tried that officer and found him efficient, the Board made him captain of 
the watch. Upon the organization of the first city government, in 1872, 
Captain Parkhurst was appointed to his present position of chief of police. 
February i, 1873, Patrolman Robert R. Perry was made captain of police, 
which rank he has held uninterruptedly to the present time, with the dis- 
tinction of being the oldest officer, in point of service, in the department. 
The office of lieutenant was created in 1875 and filled by Joseph B. Alden 

253 



-54 SOMERl/LIJl. PAST .l.VJ) /'A' AS AX/: 

until Ills death in March. iSji,, when Sergeant Samuel R. Dow was ap- 
pointed to the phace and held it until the office was discontinued in 1S77. 
Charles C. Folsom was promoted to sergeant in 1X76, and resigned. August 
I. 1.SS5. to become superintendent for the overseers of the poor, a position 
he still fills. The four sergeants of the present force, with their dates of 
appointment to the force and promotion are : Edward Mc(;arr, April, 1X71 — 
September i, 1 .S.S4 ; Christopher C. Cavanagh, May i. 1869 — August 1, 1885; 
Dennis Kelly, April, iSSi —May 10. 1S92: Eugene A. Carter, March, iS,S4 
— February s, 1S93. 

In 1S77, with a city's population of about 22,000, the police force was 
reduced from twenty-eight to twenty-four men and salaries were cut down. 
'l"he municipal police signal system was established for the use of the 
department September 1, iSSS. The emergency ambulance was introduced 
in 1S94, upon the completion of the Somerville Hospital, toward the build- 
ing fund of which the police force collectively had voluntarily contributed 
the sum of S200. In 1.S95, acting under authority of Chapter 197 of the 
Acts of I S95, entitled, "An Act to Provide for the Appointment of a Reserve 
Police in the City of Somerville," Mayor William H. Hodgkins appointed 
a reserve police force of eight men — the number of the reserve force is 
limited to ten by the same law. and the vote of the city council has fixed 
the number at eight - of whom three already, in accordance with the second 
section of the Act. requiring the regular force to be recruited from the 
reserve force, have been promoted to be regular patrolmen. September i, 
1.S96, with a city's population of about 55,000, the force consisted of the 
chief, one captain, four sergeants, thirty-six regular patrolmen and six re- 
serve officers. 

'I'he Somerville Police Relief Association, of which all the men upon 
the regular force are members, was organized in 1S72, and was incorporated 
December 19, iSSi. It is dependent for funds almost exclusively upon the 
annual police ball, and has more than 520,000 in its treasury. Its officers 
are: President, Robert R. Perry; clerk, Eugene A. Carter; treasurer, 
Melville C. Parkhurst. 

Somerville, as town and city, has ev.er been comparatively free of crime, 
chiefly because it is a residential place, where the sale of liquor is prohibited 
by overwhelming public sentiment and the liquor laws are unceasingly 
enforced. Until 1S54 criminal cases were taken to Charlestown or to East 
Cambridge for trial. From 1854 until the incorporation of the city in 1S72, 
cases were tried almost exclusively by Francis Tufts, acting as justice of 
the peace, and, later, as trial justice, under the statute whereby certain 
trial justices were designated and commissioned triennially, who exercised 
authority and jurisdiction in criminal cases in any town in the county 
where no Police Court was established. The first trials in Somerville, and 
those for many years, were conducted in the ofiice of Justice Tufts, on the 
southwesterly corner of Medford and Washington streets. In 1.S61 the court 
was removed to what had been the schoolhouse, on the southeasterly corner 
of Prospect street and Somerville avenue. A Police Court was est;iblished 
in the city April 23, 1X72. 



;>^?'*fSSr w9k 







Melville C. Parkhurst. 




Michael F. Farrcll. 



SOMKRllLLE, PAST .-LVD P/vTSSAWT. 25; 

The Hon. Isaac Story, who is still in otifice, was appointed standing 
justice, and Lebbeus Stetson was elected clerk. Clerk Stetson was suc- 
ceeded in 1882 by the present incumbent, Herbert C. Chapin. .A room in 
the city hall was used for the sessions of the court until the completion of 
the fine brick and granite police building on Bow street in 1875. This 
structure, erected at a cost of about ^^50,000, furnished, was designed 
especially for the accommodation of the Police Department, the J^olice 
Court, the Somerville Light Infantry and the Overseers of the Poor. It 
contains also a large hall for ward and city purposes. 




POLICE STATION, BOW STREET. 



The venerable brick engine-house, on the corner of Prospect and Wash- 
ington streets, was used as a lockup until 1873, before which time Cambridge 
accommodated Somerville's overflow of criminals ; and from that time until 
the police building was finished the present water-works oftice, corner of 
Prospect street and Somerville avenue, was used. 

The Somerville police department is, in many respects, a model organ- 
ization. While the city has never pursued the policy, common in many 
other cities and towns, of maintaining one patrolman to every one thousand 
inhabitants, the force as constituted is reasonably eftective, and enjoys the 
confidence and eood will of the citizens. 



THE PUBLIC LIBRARY, 

15V loiiN s. haye:s. 



CHAPTER XXL 



Tin: Sonierville l'ul)lic Library deserves a prominent place in any 
recognition of the Sonierville of to-day. Its inception, its steady growth, 
the fidelity of those to whom its interests have been committed, and its wide 
and increased usefulness, should have more than ordinary attention. 

it cannot be disputed that to a very large degree a public library is the 
focus-point of the intelligence of a community. Of course its value must 
depend upon the character of its contents and the methods employed to 
bring it into touch with all classes of people. A public library is not meant 
for those of exceptional culture only, nor must it merely meet the uncultured 
taste of those whose lack of experience would make them satisfied with 
works of a weak if not vicious character. It is for tiie steady, if necessary, 
the slow uplifting of those who need, in every station in life, that enlighten- 
ment of mind which will make them appreciate the ennobling resources of 
mental culture, refinement, and ambition. From the very first the Public 
Library of Somerville has come under good guardianship and direction. 

The one who took the earliest and most active interest in its establish- 
ment was Edward E. Edgerly. He held a position as president of the 
.Somerville High School Association which of itself was indicative of the 
esteem in which he was held by those interested with him in the improve- 
ment of children and youth. It was unfortunate that his sickness and death 
prevented the maturing of his plans, but he achieved the success of in- 
spiring others with the salutary importance of the project he had so per- 
sistently and strenuously advocated. Those who were associated with him 
did not receive his ideas in fallow minds or in unsympathetic hearts. ( )n 
the contrary, at the suggestion of the Association of which he had been 
President, the selectmen and school committee of the town were invited to 
co-operate in taking measures for the formation of a library. This propo- 
sition received the immediate attention of the selectmen. A joint committee 
was formed, consisting of Austin Pelknap, Horace Haskins, and I'rancis 
Houghton, of the board of selectmen, and Edward C. Pooth, Henry M. 
Prown and George S. Littlefieldof the High School Association. This was 
in the year 1S69. The same committee was reappointed in March, 1S70, 
and prepared and submitted a plan for the proposed library, and presented 
the names of tlie followin'r well-known citizens as a Poard of Trustees : 




-i^ 



\ 



Ik- 




JOHN S. Hayes. 




y 

CO 

a. 



c 

C/) 



SOMER]'ILLE. PAST AXD PRESENT. 26 1 

Austin Belknap, Henry M. Brown, Samuel A. Carlton, Horace P. Hemen- 
way, Oren S. Knapp, John P. Marshall, Edwin Mills, Frank H. Raymond 
and Columbus Ty^er. 

The town, however, at its April meeting in 1S71, while voting "That a 
free public library be established," did not ratify the action of the committee, 
but instead appointed a committee "to report a plan for operating the 
same." This committee consisted of the above mentioned citizens, and 
Russell H. Conwell, Joshua H. Davis, Samuel C. Hunt, George S. Littlefield, 
Rev. Charles Lowe, Isaac Pitman, and Quincy A. Vinal. Subsequently 
there was a change made in the composition of the committee. Rev. Charles 
Lowe and Prof. John P. Marshall being absent in Europe, and so unable to 
serve, Rev. Geo. W. Durell and John R. Poor were chosen to fill the va- 
cancies. 

It is unnecessar}' to follow in minute detail the work done by the com- 
mittee. They reported in print, and submitted a code of by-laws, sub- 
stantially the same as those now in force, and the citizens in town meeting 
assembled adopted their recommendations, November 7, 1871. 

The change of town government to that of a city necessitated some 
delay. But at a meeting of the city council held October 21, 1S72, a board 
of trustees consisting of nine members was elected. This board organ- 
ized November 14, and elected Isaac Pitman librarian. 

The library opened for the delivery of books to the public May i, 
1.S73, in a small room on the lower rioor of the city hall. It had a list of 
23X4 volumes. Of that number 715 volumes w^ere donated by thirty-six 
public-spirited citizens. From that time until the present, the library has 
been wholly sustained by the yearly appropriations made by the city coun- 
cil, and the dog-licenses, which are yearly turned over to the library, it hav- 
ing received only $102.80 in gifts. The aggregate amount of the annual 
appropriations and dog-licenses, during the existence of the library, is 
,1^111,355.34. 

Mr. Pitman continued as librarian, giving valuable help, without mone}' 
and without price, until June i, 1875, when he resigned, and his valuable 
assistant, Miss H. A. Adams, was elected to his place, which she acceptably 
filled for eighteen years. During her term of service the number of books 
increased to about 25,000, and the yearly circulation to 93,000. In July, 1893, 
the present incumbent, John S. Hayes, took charge of the library. 

It was evident to the board of trustees that the increasing needs of 
the library consequent upon the enlarged population of the city, and the 
more general use of the library books, demanded better accommodations, 
and more modern methods. The present library building was erected in 
18S4-5, 3.t a cost of $28,335.45 exclusive of land, and presumably was deemed 
sufficiently capacious for all prospective needs; yet withm ten years it had 
been outgrown in every department, but particularly in shelf-room for 
books, and rooms for consultation and study. 

By the generous action of the city government, the trustees were en- 
abled in 1895 to remove the book-cases and erect a steel book-stack, thus 



262 somi:r\'/i.i.e, /'.is/- .i.v/) /'/c/:s/-:x/\ 

enabling tlicni to more than double the book-holding capacity of the stack- 
room. ( )ther changes were made, adding very much to the usefulness of 
the library for those who desired to consult its resources. A reference 
room was provided, thus making the books of this department more aces- 
sible. One room has been set apart for works on our state and town his- 
tories, and the volumes which now line its walls make a notable beginning for 
a department of Americana : and numerous valuable art-books have been 
added, and so far as was deemed justifiable in view of the limited funds at 
the disposal of the trustees, foreign books, mostly in general literature, have 
also found a place within the library. 

.\nd still the work goes on. There is an increasing use of the books now 
held in the library catalogue, and a very urgent need for more. This is 
indicated by the fact that, having a library of less than 34,000 volumes, and 
a city population of over 54,000, and rapidly increasing, the yearly circulation 
has risen to 130,000, — which is equivalent to each volume in the library 
being circulated four times each year; while the size of the library is in- 
dicated by the statement that there is less than two-thirds of a book to each 
inhabitant. It will thus be seen that our library is very small in proportion 
to the size of the city, while its circulation is comparatively large, — thus 
making it a question of serious consideration how soon there can be had. at 
least, a list of 100,000 books in the library. 

It is the policy of the trustees to bring the resources of the librarx as 
close to the homes of the city as possible. With this end in view, sub-agencies 
have been located in East Somerville and West Somerville, and books are 
regularly delivered at the several large school buildings, for the use of 
teachers and pupils, and thus the library is kept in touch with the younger 
portion of the community. 

In order to make the library more accessible, a new finding-list was 
printed about one year ago, after a re-classification of all books in the library, 
at an expense of .'>4,344. In order to give information as to new books, or 
books bearing on special topics, a monthly bulletin for free distribution has 
been issued, and frec[uent communications printed in the local press, which 
has very cordially seconded the efforts wiiich have been industriously made 
by those in charge of the library. 

The trustees have always given patient thought and valuable time, 
voluntarily and gratuitously, sometimes in much perplexity, to promoting 
the interests of the institution committed to their guardianship. The high 
character of the books selected and placed upon the shelves testifies to their 
faithfulness, and indicates that they fully appreciate the responsibilities 
placed upon them ; and it is evident that the librar>- has been exceedingly 
fortunate in having the services of able and devoted men and women in its 
organization, management, and administration. It has been built up and 
carried forward with no false step or retrograde movement, from its small 
beginning in a little room, until it has quite outgrown the beautiful building 
it now occupies, and it seeks to-day new opportunities of usefulness, even 
in advance of public requirements. 




Charles S. Lincoln. 




Christopher E. Rya\es. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 265 

Judging from its past growth, and from its present intiuence, it is by no 
means unreasonable to expect that the public library will be an increasing 
power for good in the nourishing, intelligent, and beautiful city of Somer- 
ville. 

The interest taken in the library since its beginning, and the use made 
of it, may be imperfectly indicated by the following brief citation of figures : 
In 1873, ^s has been already stated, the number of books in the library 
was 2.384; the circulation that year was 18,047 volumes. Two years later, 
that is, in 1875, there had been placed in the library 5,235 books, and the 
circulation was 39,025. In 1880, 8,614 books. 67,894 circulation; in 1885, 
12,788 books, 65.450 circulation; in 1890,20,112 books, 95,127 circulation; 
in 1894, 27,729 books, 106,341 circulation; and in 1S96. up to November i, 
36,642 books, and a circulation of 116,786. The circulation for the entire 
year will probably exceed 130,000 volumes. The number of books worn out, 
lost and discarded, up to the present time, has been 2,754, making the num- 
ber of volumes in the library about 34,000. The total circulation has been 
1,727,038 volumes. 

The library and reading-room are open every day (Sundays and legal 
holidays excepted) from 9 a. m. to 6 p. m ; Wednesdays and Saturdays until 
9 p. M. The reference room is open from 1.30 p. ^[.to 5.30 p. m. Books are 
delivered and collected at the several large grammar schools as frequently 
as the demand may require. 

Any resident of Somerville, over fourteen years of age, is entitled to 
the use of the library by signing the proper application, and presenting a 
written recommendation that he is a suitable person to use the library, 
signed by two citizens of Somerville. 

Any person visiting the library for the purpose of literary or scientific 
investigation may temporarily receive the benefits of the reading-room and 
the use of the books within the library building. 

Special privileges are granted professional persons, teachers, authors, 
and special students requiring the use of more than one book at a time. 

It is hoped that those who make use of the library will have no hesi- 
tation in consulting the librarians and assistants in all matters upon which 
information is needed. Inquiries regarding special subjects of study are 
always invited, and will receive careful attention. Information slips can be 
obtained at the desk. 

( )k(;anizatiox. 

Trustees. — Charles S. Lincoln, president, J. Henry P'litner, Christo- 
pher E. Rymes, Charles H. brown, Klijah C. Clark, John 1!. Viall, Charles 
A. West, J. Frank Wellington, Charles W. Sawyer; John S. Hayes, secre- 
tary. 

Library Staff. — John S. Hayes, librarian ; Clara L. I>idwell, assistant 
librarian; Anna L. Stone and Mary J. Warren, assistants; F. Mabel Nor- 
cross, cataloguer; Esther M. Mayhew, Charles A. Wiggin and Henry N. 
Sanborn, attendants; Charles A. Southwick, janitor. 




J. Frank Wellington. 



/ 



^. 






Charles W. Sawyer. 




James R. Hopkins. 



THE FIRE DEPARTMENT 

BY WILLIAM E. BRIGIIAM. 



CHAPTER XXII. 



P^ROM 1842, when all Somerville was a quiet farming country, dates the 
history of the Somerville Fire Department. For nearly fifty years a curious 
little machine had been in service in Charlestown proper, a "tub" hand 
engine, Mystic No. 6 by name. Its principal mechanism consisted of an 
oblong wooden tank sheathed with metal, pistons which worked perpendi- 
cularly, and handsome lancewood brakes. It could not "draught " water, 
and all it threw was first poured into it from buckets — hence its denomina- 
tion " tub." 

In 1S38, four years before Somerville was set off as a town, the Charles- 
town authorities assigned this engine to duty in Charlestown's big back 
yard, as Somerville then was, and a plain two-story wooden engine-house 
with cupola was built for it on the corner of Washington and Prospect 
streets, at a cost of #400. In this the engine w^as placed, and a small bell was 
hung in the cupola. P^or years, even after the Somerville company was or- 
ganized, in 1842, an alarm of fire could be rung only by means of this bell. 
Vov years, also, according to a law then in force, every man in town was re- 
quired to hang two buckets, usually of leather and painted, in his front hall, 
and when an alarm was sounded it was his duty to seize those buckets, 
hurry to the fire and range in line with others to assist in passing water from 
well or cistern to the men who worked the engine. 

August 6, 1838. the selectmen appointed Benjamin F. Ricker, Hiram 
Allen, Clark Bennett, Solomon Story, James Cnderwood, Nathan Tufts, 
Nathan Tufts, Ir., David A. Sanborn, William Bonner, John Runey, Jr., 
True Morrill, Henry A. Ireland, Charles Miller, Jerome Thorp. Joshua 
Rand, Levi ( )rcutt, Daniel Stone, Joseph Clark, Robert Vinal, William 
Munr'oe, William Parker, Nathan lilodgett, Benjamin Hadley, Benjamin 
Hadley, Jr., Abram Welch, Oliver Tufts, Samuel T. Frost, Asa Richards, 
Dustin N. Smith, Oscar Bennett, Robert Sanborn, Nathaniel Williams, 
lohn Ciles, Caleb Harrington and Charles Wentworth, "to be engineers 
and firemen constituting a new company designated as Engine Company 
No. 6, attached to Engine 6, located near Milk Row in said Charlestown." 
The Charles Miller mentioned in the foregoing was the man who named 
Somerville. The records fail to give the list of officers of the original 
"Mystic 6" company. The first officers mentioned were in 1840, when 
269 



2 JO so.]//:a'I7/././:. /'.is/' .i.v/> /'/,'/■ s/:.vy\ 

lohn RuncN. |r., was foreman : Scjlomon Story, assistant foreman: Jerome 
Thorp, second assistant : and Robert A. Vinal. clerk and treasurer. In 1S39 
Hiram Allen had been appointed an assistant engineer, and was, it is stated, 
the onlv representative the .SomerviJle district ever had upon the Charles- 
town board of fire engineers. In 1S42, when the town was set off, old Mys- 
tic '> was left as a legacy to Somerville. and the engine's valuation. 550, was 
entered upon the town records. This engine was Somerville's only fire 
apparatus until 1S50; in 1X56, by vote of the town. Abram Welch was 
authorized to sell the venerable relic, which he did for 530, and it was taken 
to Kast Boston and broken up for old junk. The small hand bell which 
came with it from Charlestown is now in possession of Chief Hopkins at 
the central fire station. It bears the inscription : — 

" Presented to Company No. 7 by Mr. John I^. Tarker." 

The salary of the firemen, all volunteers, was ^1.50 each per annum, 
paid by the abatement of the poll tax. Fires were infrequent, however, and in 
a short time the company disbanded ; and from that time until 1 850 the engine 
was manned sometimes by a regularly organized company and sometimes 
by volunteers. In 1X4^) the " Hoys' Company," so called, because composed 
of young men from \(> to 20 years old. was organized. According to the 
recollection of some of its members. Levi ( )rcutt was foreman. David A. 
Sanborn. Jr., assistant foreman, and J. Manley Clark, clerk. Among other 
members were Quincy A. \inal, Robert A. \inal, Horace 1!. Kuney, 
(leorge \V. Fillebrown, Carlton Hawkins. "Jimmy" Williams (a popular 
colored man), George Ambrose Clark, Albert L. Sanborn. Daniel Sanborn. 
Henry Munroe, Henry Thorpe, and Quincy Harrington. 

In 1S50 began what may be termed the romantic days of the department 
which continued for fifteen years, during which time the firemen as such 
were closely identified with the social life of the town. November 12. 1S49, 
after repeated attempts at like action, the town appropriated > 1,43s. 75 for 
the purchase of a "good and sufiicient fire engine." It arrived about Jan- 
uary 1, 1.S50, and was styled " Somerville No. i." It was a first-class mod- 
ern suction machine, one of the best ever made by the celebrated Hunne- 
man iV Co. of Roxbury, and had six and a half inch cylinders, folding 
brakes and all the latest improvements. January 7, 1S50, the selectmen 
appointed the following board of fire engineers: Nathan Tufts, Jr., Gard- 
ner T. Ring. George O. Brastow, John B. Osgood, and Abram Welch. Mr. 
Welch declining to serve, Hiram Allen was appointed in his place. Jan- 
uary 15, the board organized by the choice of Nathan Tufts, Jr.. as chief 
engineer, and (ieorge O. lirastow, clerk. More than fifty men at once en- 
rolled in the company, and soon it was one of the leading and most popular 
organizations in town, l-ollowing is the original roster of Somerville En- 
gine Company .\o. 1, as taken from a poster in the possession of Chief 
Hopkins, and which is believed to be the only one in existence : — 

D. A. Marrett, Lorenzo Burbank, Rufus Littlefield. Seward Dodge, 
Caleb Kingman, Jairus Mann, L. Arnold, George W. liridgman. (ieorge 
A. (lark. Samuel Hamblin. George W. Iladlcv. David Kenrick. Jt)hn 




David A. Sanborn. 




CO 



I- 

i- 
c/) 



Q 

< 
a: 
O 

(5 



S0MER17LLE, PAST AIVD FRESE.VT. 273 

Ackers, David Bonner. Granville Leland, Jonas Trefren, Francis Tufts 
Levi Orcutt, Jr., W. S. Leland, Lewis C. Edgerly, David A. Sanborn,' 
Nathaniel k. Hammond, Joseph O. Twombly, Calvin Horton, Horace B 
Runey, J. Rune}-, George H. Foster, John B. Osgood, Benjamin Randall 
Benjamm Hamilton, B. F. Darling, George Holton, ]. Rice, Edward [' 
Shattuck, Lewis Horton, J. ]]achelder, Benjamin Hadley, Isaac F. Shepard 
Francis J. Williams, John Ireland, Daniel A. Hartwell, James Wiggins' 
James M. Stevens, M. E. Benjamin, E. G. Kenrick, S. C. BradshaC, Jr ' 
Frederick W. Hannaford, William G. Emery, Samuel H. Gooding, Shepard 
Robinson, Joseph Pierce, Jr., George S. Fogg, W. B. Sisson, Franklin 1) 
Snow, James \\'illiams, George W. Trefren. 

The first fire to which the department was called was the burnincr of 
Jotham Johnson's barn on the >' Ireland rangeway," off School street toward 
L nion square. 

In i,S53 the company demanded a raise of pay from .<;i.5o a year to $1 00 
a month, that an entertainment fund might be.established. The selectmen 
hesitated. The men reeled up the hose and, figuratively speaking, walked 
out. In course of time the selectmen yielded and, December 5, 1854 this 
pioneer strike was ended. The company, as a matter of fact, suffered one 
or two other disbandments, during all of which, however, the men stood as 
ready for service, in case of emergency, as if their names had still been ear- 
ned upon the pay-roll of the town. 

An event which attracted the excited attention of firemen all over the 
State, and in which the Somerville company played one of the two important 
parts, took place Fast Day, 1852. Somerville ( )ne, a Hunneman, and Niagara 
3 of East Cambridge, a Thayer engine, had long been rivals, and at last 
Somerville sent a formal challenge to C-ambridge. The fact of the approach- 
ing contest became noised abroad, and on the day of the trial several thou- 
sand persons, residents of neighboring places and firemen from all over the 
State, gathered on Broadway, Cambridge. The Cambridge Brass Band 
was hired, all the church bells were rung, and the excitement was intense 
I he cylinder of Niagara was of about the same size as that of Somerville but 
of shorter stroke. Niagara lowered Somerville's water nine and one-quarter 
inches in the first trial and " washed " her once in the second. At the ex- 
piration of time in the second trial the water in Somerville was four inches 
from the top of the tub. In the third trial, -tub and tub," Niagara 
" sucked " Somerville twice, and at the expiration of time the water in Niao-- 
ara was twelve and a half inches from the top of the tub, and in Some'r- 
ville's, five and a half inches. Captain B. F. Darling was in command of 
Somerville i, and Captain Alexander Eraser of Niagara 3. 

As a matter of history, also, Somerville One engaged in many other ex- 
citing contests of a like nature, in which she was as often victorious as de- 
feated. 

The first and only board of fire wards for the town, appointed May 4 
1842, consisted of Robert G. Tenney, Hiram Hackett and William a' 
Russell, who served until the appointment of the board of engineers in 

i8i;o. 



274 Si)Mi:A'i//. /./■:. /'.isT .i.v/> /'Kj:s/:x/: 

1 )cceinbcr 24. 1S55, the old engine-house was destroyed by lire, although 
the engine with other contents was saved, and |. (^. Twombly's paint-shop 
was used until iS5^, when the town, at a cost of 55,000, erected the substan- 
tial brick building on the corner of Washington and Prospect streets ; in 
1S71 the handsome house with the tower, on the corner of Highland a\enue 
and Walnut street, was erected. 

Uefore leaving the days of the hand-engine it is pleasant to record one 
or two of the many incidents illustrative of the patriotism and paternal 
liberalitv of the tiremen of that time, and of their correlation to the interests 
of the town. For years tiie upper room in the little engine-house and 
Franklin hall, ne.\t it. on the site of the present Holmes' store, were much 
used for public gatherings of all kinds, of which none, perhaps, were more 
popular with the tiremen than the series of religious services in charge of 
Rev. Charles Baker. When "Father" Baker wished to build a church 
edifice, in 185 7-8, he said : " Well. boys, what are you going to do to help 
us.' "" The answer was immediate and satisfactory: and it was said of the 
members of Somerville Fngine Company .\o. i, that their assistance did 
much toward the erection of the first edifice built by the First M. F. Church 
in Somerville — now the property of the St. Joseph's Society, on Webster 
avenue. The first fiagstaff in town, long a landmark, and later replaced, 
was put up by the firemen in Cnion square in 1853. 

The war record of Somerville i Fngine (."ompany was noteworthy. 
Immediately following the bombardment of Fort Sumter several of its 
members, including James R. Hopkins, now chief, Albert Caswell, i-". R. 
Kinsley, Joseph J. Giles. John H. Hodgdon, I'rank Moore and Henry 
Carr, enlisted in the Somerville Light Infantr\- and went to the front ; and 
during the war the company contributed more than $800 to assist in placing 
Somerville's soldiers in the field and caring for their families at home. 

It was fifteen years from the purchase of the hand-engine to the organ- 
ization of the first hose-company. In 1865 David A. Sanborn and Jairus 
.Mann were sent by the town to New \'ork to select a hand hose-carriage. 
In Troy they chose one bearing upon the front the words. "John F. Wool," 
and on the back, "We Battle with the Flements." It was taken to East 
Somerville and placed in a shed, and later removed to the two-stor\- wooden 
house on Webster street, between Cilen and Rush streets, torn down in the 
fall of 1896 to allow the erection upon that site of the Sanford Hanscom 
schoolhouse. " Liberty Hose Company No. i " was at once organized, in 
June, 1865, as follows: .Alfred Horton, foreman; George W. Bean, assistant 
foreman; James R. Hopkins, clerk; James Merritt, treasurer; James Bean, 
L. Horton, I). P. Horton. W. F. Dickson. Jabez P. Dill, A. F. Locke, Seth 
Hatch, James Galletly, K. G. Wentworth, William Bean. J. D. Lovering, 
Elkanah Crosby, R. D. Hall, James Porter, F. .\. Dickson and .Albert 
-Abbott. July 9, 1866, the company disbanded, owing to inlcrnal dissen- 
sions, but a new company was formed within a few days, taking the name 
of " John E. Wool." In the fall of 1867 the carriage was remodeled and re- 
painted : on one reelhead was a representation of the burning of the Frank- 




Tt 




Bernard W. Lawrence. 




< 

T3 






< 

Qi 

QQ 



Qc: 



SOMERVILLE, PAST .LVD PRESENT. 277 

lin Street Congregational Church, in 1X67. and on the other was placed a 
tine carving of a wreath, horn of plenty, etc., inclosing a picture of the burn- 
ing of the armory of the I'rescott Light Guards of Charlestown, with the 
machine coming out of its house. A horse-carriage superseded the "Gen. 
John E. Wool" in 1873, '^"^ the hand-carriage, which had cost $600, was 
sold to the town of Everett for $400 and thence went out of service and was 
returned to its original company in Troy. Thomas H. Daley, now captain 
of Hose I, was the first driver of a horse hose-carriage in the department, 
and has continued as driver to the present time. Differences with the en- 
gineers led to a disbandment of the company in 1S74, but another company 
was organized immediately. 

The fire department was fast becoming one of the great wheels of the 
municipal machinery. March 30, 1866, the volunteer system was abolished, 
and May 26, 1866, a steam fire-engine, the first and one of the best that 
Hunneman & Co. built, arrived, and the department was reorganized. A 
working force of engineers, drivers and firemen was employed permanently. 
The new steamer company, recruited chiefly from the old hand-engine com- 
pany, was composed as follows: Frank ( ). Hudson, foreman; Albert Cas- 
well, assistant foreman; Samuel S. Hudson, clerk; W. A. Burbank, l^ufus 
Lamkin, Melvin B. Ricker, F. I). Snow, hosemen ; H. A. \\'hiting, engineer ; 
Henry A. Byrnes, stoker; Charles Trull, driver. The only muster this 
company ever attended was at Fitchburg, October 11, 1 871, when, twenty-five 
engines contesting, Somerville stood fifth, with a horizontal record of 212 
feet, 8 inches, through 200 feet of hose, lire first Silsby engine was bought 
in 1873. Henry A. Byrnes and William A. Burbank, promoted to engineer 
and fireman in 1867, have held their positions nearly thirty years, being still 
in service. 

Winter Hill Hose Company No. 2, originally named " Carlton," was 
organized December i, 1S69. With a two-wheeled carriage and a jumper it 
occupied humble wooden quarters until 1872-3, when its present well ap- 
pointed brick house on Marshall street was erected, a new carriage was 
bought, and horses were secured to drag it. 

Since 1S67 an independent company, having for its ofiicers Caleb A. 
Page, Jarvis A. Bucknam and Fred A. White, had run with the hook and 
ladder truck, bought in 1863 but never formally manned. May 2, 1870, the 
company having disbanded some time before, George W. Bean was re- 
quested to recruit a regular compan}'. which, in August, was officially rec- 
ognized and organized with George W. Bean, foreman; Albert Caswell, 
assistant foreman; and John W. Byrnes, clerk. It was styled " Prescott," 
after Col. Prescott of Bunker Hill fame. In 1874, when a new truck was 
bought, the name was changed to Robert A. Vinal Hook and Ladder Com- 
pany No. I, Chief James R. Hopkins having declined to allow it to be 
named for himself. 

In June, 1871, the graceful engine-house upon Central Hill, now aban- 
doned, was completed, and the steamer was transferred thither from Union 
square. Hose 3 company was organized at once to fill the place left vacant, 



j;s S()mi:r\ii.ij:. iwsr .ixn rRi-.suxr. 

and the truck was transferred from its shed to the same building. I'his 
comjiany was named after George H. Foster, foreman of "' Somerville One "" 
from iS;4 to iS6i,andwho. ''as a hand-engine commander, had no superior 
and but few equals." He served also as an engineer until his death, No- 
vember 23, 1864, and his funeral was one of the largest attended ever held 
in Somerville. 

George O. iirastow Hose Company No. 4 was organized November 12, 
1S73, and went at once into its present building, corner of Highland avenue 
and Grove street, at the completion of which all the apparatus in the city 
was equipped with horses. In 18X4 a combined hose-reel and a protective 
wagon replaced Hose 4's carriage. It was intended to use rubber covers to 
protect goods at fires, but as the insurance companies would not furnish 
the covers the idea was abandoned, and in iSS; two 40-gallon Kabcock 
chemical tanks replaced the box intended for the covers. This was designed 
by Chief Hopkins and. according to H. H. Easterbrook. to whose pains- 
taking sketch of the Somerville tire department this writer is indebted for 
several matters of detail, was probably the first combined apparatus of that 
kind in the country. A Silsby steam-engine was placed in the station in 
1.S90, and the company changed from a hose to an engine company. Hose 
5. whose model brick station is on Somerville a\enue at Lowell street, was 
organized August 15, 1SS9. 

The commodious and substantial Central Fire Station, near the junc- 
tion of Medford street and Highland avenue, was erected in 1894. where- 
upon the old engine-house on Highland avenue and Walnut street was 
abandoned. The new station is thoroughly practical in plan and appoint- 
ments, and has no superior in the State. It shelters now Engine i and hose 
wagon and the new chemical engine A, and includes accommodations also 
for a combined aerial-ladder truck and water-tower when it may be found 
necessary. The second floor is given up to sleeping rooms, a recreation 
room, hayloft, workroom, and the chief's quarters. The third Hoor is used 
exclusively as the headquarters of the fire-alarm telegraph system. In 1S94, 
also, a building sufficiently commodious for two pieces of apparatus was 
erected on Flighland avenue near Cedar street. A truck was bought and 
placed therein, and Hook and Ladder Company No. 2 was organized to op- 
erate it. 

In iS./> a new fire station, designed to accommodate three pieces of 
apparatus, was erected at the corner of IJroadway and Cross street. To 
this building Hose Company No. i w-as transferred from the old wooden 
building on Webster street and reorganized into an engine company. Re- 
lief engine No. 2 was placed in its charge, and this company is now known 
as Engine Company No. 2. 

In June, 1S74, the Gamewell fire-alarm telegraph system was intro- 
duced, and in 1S77, under special act of the legislature, the force was reor- 
ganized, the board of engineers was abolished, and the power to appoint 
and remove vested in the mayor and board of aldermen. The office of as 
sistant chief was also created, and since that time has been efficiently filled 
by Captain Nathaniel C. ISarker. The men were uniformed in 1S85, 



1 ■ ^:.K'il' I. 




js,i soMi:R\iij.i:, PAST .\xn i'Ri:si:xT. 

It is possible ti) speak only in the highest terms of tlie efficiency of the 
vSomerville lire Department and of the ability and popularity of its veteran 
chief, James R. Hopkins, as fireman and man. The city has dealt very 
liberally with the department, and there is not its superior in the State. 

A valuable table showing the organization of the Hoard of Fire Engi- 
neers from 1S50 to the present time is as follows : — 



Year. 


Chi.,!. 


Clerk. 


■ St Assistant. 


21! A-^isiant. 


3d Assistant. 


i>5o 
• S51 
.852 
■853 
1854 
iS5s 
1X56 
.857 
i8vS 
1859 
i860 
1S61 
1 861 
1863 
1864 
1865 
1866 
.S67 
1S68 
1869 
1870 
.87. 
1872 


Nathan Tufts. Jr. 
Abram Welch. 


( '.eorge O. Brastow. 
Sam'l H. Gooding. 


Gardner T. Ring. 

Levi Orcutt. 
Chas. E. Gilman. 


John B. Osgood. 
.Abram Welch. 
Carl'n Hawkins. 
Benj. Randall. 


Hiram Allen. 
John Runey. 


Robert A Vinal. 


John Runey. 


Charles Waldron. 






John Runey. 
Sam'l H Gooding. 

D. A. Sanborn, Jr. 


Sam'l H. Gooding. 

Charles Waldron. 
Samuel A. Tattle. 
I). .\. Sanborn, Jr. 

Jairus Mann. 


John Runey. 
(jeo. .A. Sanborn. 

Geo. H. Foster. 
Sam'l H. Gooding. 


(;. W. Trefren. 




" 
<■ 


Sam'l H. Gooding. 


Henry .\. .Viigicr. 


Geo. Cutter. 


.Albert Horton. 
J. R. Hopkins. 


James R. Hopkins. 


Henry A. .Angier. 


George W. Bean. 


1". D. Snow. 


Theo. C. Joslyn. 


'873 
1874 
1875 
1876 
1877 
to 
• 896 


" 


Gardner W. Ring. 


Theo. C. Joslyn. 
Nath'l C. Barker. 


Theo. C. Joslyn. 
A. Caswell. 


A. Caswell. 
S. H. Stevens. 




East Somerville Baptist Church, 

Perkins Street, opposite Pinckney. 



HISI'ORY OV THr: CHURCHES. 



c"ii.\i''n:k will. 

EAST S()MKk\ II.I.K DAI'Tlsr (HI KCll. 

l;V Rl.\. (Jl<\ II.I.K CtiAT.S. 

Thk Kast Somei"\ille IJaptist Church was orj.janized March 19, 1S90. 
Its constituent members were nearly all orijjinally members of the Perkins 
Street Baptist Church. Its first pastor was Rev. C. L. Rhoades, who served 
the church from its organization until September 25, i.S(;2. During this 
period the membership increased from 143 to 274, and a Sunday-school of 
over five hundred was gathered. The first services of the church were held 
in Hadley Hall on Uroadway, afterward in the Mint-street Methodist 
church, and since July 25, 1S90, in the present edifice on I'erkins street op- 
posite l'inckne\. 'i'he original officers were: deacons, Samuel Cutler, Hiram 
\. Stearns and Kll)ridge A. Towle : clerk, Arthur C. Hill; treasurer, 
Charles F. Powers: collector, Win. A. Corson. ( )ne of the remarkable 
features of the early history of the church was the work among children 
inaugurated and carried on by Pastor Rhoades. Hundreds of boys and 
girls were gathered every Saturday evening, and instructed by means of 
lectures and stereopticon pictures, many of whom became permanently 
connected with the Sunday-school and the church. The officers of the 
Sunday-school at its organization were: superintendent. William H. Ciood- 
speed ; assistant superintendent, L. Herbert Huntley: secretary, William 
1!. Wilson: treasurer, W. T. Kincaid. May i, iS(;i, William H. Coodspeed 
and Herman 1 ). ( )sgood were elected deacons. The IJaptist ^ Oung Peo- 
ple's I'nion was formed September 29, i.S(ji, and ( haiies H. johnc|uest was 
elected its first president. 

The church was without a pastor from September 25, 1S92, until March 
5, 1X93. when the present pastor. Rev. Orville Coats, began his work. 

The church, though small in numbers, has made a good record by its 
interest in missions, general evangelization and benevolence. During the 
six and a half years of its existence it has given Si 1.529.30 for benevolent 
objects, and raised for all purposes .543..S9S.27. Present membership is 29S. 
Church officers: pastor, Rev. ( )r\illc Coats; deacons, Samuel Cutler. 
Hiram X. Stearns, Wm. H. Goodspeed and Herman I). ( )sgood ; clerk, 
Charles X. Stockbridge ; treasurer, Irank !■'.. Cutler: collector, C. A. 
Littlefield; assistant collector, I. F. Pierce; Sunday-school superinten- 
dent, L. Herbert Fhmtley ; assistant superintendent, William B. Wilson; 
secretary, Wm. S. McLean ; treasurer, Walter K. Horton. Preaching 
services are held on Sunday at 10.30 .\. .\i. and 7.30 r. \i. Sunday-school 
meets at noon. 
2S2 




Justin D. Fulton, D. D. 

Pastor First Baptist Cliurcli. 




First Baptist Church, Spring Hill. 



somi-:r\-ille, fast axd j'resejYt. 285 

FIRST BAPTIST CHl^RCH. 

\\\ \\V\. Justin D. Fui.tun, D.I). 

The First liaptist Church in Somerville was organized December 30, 
1.S52, with eleven men and twenty women. A council was called to recog- 
nize the company as a regular Baptist church, twenty-two churches being 
represented. On motion of Rev. Rollin H. Neal, I ).!)., the council unani- 
mously voted to recognize this as "The First Baptist Church in Somerville," 
which recognition was completed in a public service the same evening. 
Rev. Daniel W. Faunce served them as pastor from July 14, 1.S53, to Sep- 
tember I, 1.S54. He was followed by (xeorge G. l^airbanks, March 21, 1S55, 
to June 30, 1S66 ; Lewis Fj. Hibbard, February 21, 1S67, to February 2S, iSOS ; 
John D. Sweet, May 4, 186S, to August 9, 1869 ; Charles M. Smith, February 
20, 1S70, to March 31, 1885 ; Fenner B. Dickinson, October i, 1885, to No- 
vember 2, 1886 ; Frank (). Cunningham, April 26, 1887, to September i, 1892 ; 
Luther B. Plumer, February 4, 1893, to September 4, 1894; and Justin I). 
Fulton, D.D., November 20, i8<;4, to the present time. The church wor- 
shipped in the Beech-street Chapel from the date of its organization till 
March 2, 1873, when they entered their present place of worship on Belmont 
street. This building was formally dedicated June 12, 1873, and has been 
without a mortgage or incumbrance since April, 1883. It is a comfortable, 
commodious and attractive house of worship. 

The church has from the first maintained a character of uncompromis- 
ing devotion to the proclamation of the gospel of Christ, and believing 
that the Baptist church founded by Christ and the apostles in Jerusalem 
furnishes the model for the highest and freest religious life, consistency has 
made the church the stalwart champion of Baptist principles, which enter 
so largely into the religious life of the nation. The position maintained by 
this church on the temperance ciuestion has helped keep Somerville a no- 
license city, and has furnished from its membership some of the ablest 
advocates and the most indefatigable workers for clean citizenship in the 
city. 

The calling of its present pastor as the lover of Roman Catholics, and 
their co-operation with him in the great work to which he has given his 
heart, giving him four days of each week to prosecute the work in the 
regions beyond, evidences their faith in the needs of the country and the 
remedial power furnished by the gospel which is the present and the future 
hoj^e of the country. 

The Sai!I!ath Schooi. was organized in 1853, and was made a branch 
of church work by formal action, April 10, 1889. Its superintendents ha\e 
been men of God, and its teachers, chosen from the church, are thoroughly 
in sympathy with the spirit and purposes of the gospel which is being 
sounded out from the pulpit. 

The Baptist Young People's L'nion furnishes the young people an or- 
ganization where Baptist sentiments find a home, and brings the young 
people as well as the church into association with masses of young Baptists 
that are making their influence felt in all parts of the land. 



286 SO.\fERilI.Li:. I'AST AXP rRI:SI:\T. 

The Woman's l"orci.i;n Mission Circle was oi<janizcd April !o. 1S73. 
Mrs. Elizal^eth 1>. Story was its tirst president, and she filled the office with 
exceptional acceptance till her death, October 23. isss. In iS,S5 a Woman's 
Home Mission tircle was formed, with Mrs. S. 1'. Wilcox for president, 
but in iSS*; it was thought best to consolidate the two, having one organi- 
zation with two treasurers. The organization was then known as the 
Woman's Mission Circle. There is a children's meeting, held on Friday 
afternoons at 4 J'. M. under the direction of the H. \ . W L'.. which is accom- 
plishing great good. The church is in the enjoyment of great prosperity, as 
is indicated by the nourishing Sabbath-school and large congregations which 
wait upon the ministry of the word, for all of which there is devout thank- 
fulness. 

R.\.\i).\LL MKMOklAl, IRKK HAITIST CHLKCll. 

l;\ I\l.\. F.UWIN p. Mnn TON. 

Ihe Randall Memorial Free Baptist Church was organized July 21. 
1S73. as the Freewill Baptist Mission Church of Charlestown. with twenty- 
three members. For about one year meetings were held in a hall on Main 
street, Charlestown. October. 1874, they moved to Broadway Hall, East 
Somerville, and in June. 1S79. to a larger hall near by. There they remained 
until April, 1S82, when they moved into the chapel they now occupy. A lot 
has been purchased on \ew Cross street, and an edifice, a cut of which ac- 
companies this account, is to be erected upon it. This church has always 
been small in numbers, but has been self-supporting. About three hundred 
and fifty persons have united with it since its organization, and the present 
resident membership is one hundred and eight. This church has had six 
pastors : Rev. James Rand, August, 1.S73, to January, 1879; Rev. A. T. Hill- 
man. December, 1S82, to September, 1883 ; Rev. James Boyd, February, 1884, 
to September, 1 s,S4 ; Rev. C. S. Frost, January, 1886, to April. 1887 : Rev. J. 
H. \'eoman, May. 1.S87, to October, 1888 ; and Rev. Edwin P. Moulton, the 
present pastor, who commenced his labors in November, 1888. 'I'hough 
com]:)aratively small, this church has had man\- excellent men and women 
among its members, and has done a good work in the community. During 
the past year it has given to the world one minister. Rev. Ceo. W'. Russell 
of Starksboro, \'t., and one missionary, Miss Ftta Castellow of Calcutta. 
India. This church is congregational in polity, and in faith stands for free 
grace, open communion and the baptism of believers by immersion only. 
It is a member of a body of churches of like faith in the State, called the 
Massachusetts Association of Free Baptist Churches. It has also con- 
nected with it all the usual auxiliaries : a Sunday-school, ^'oung I'eople's 
Society, Ladies' Social Circle, etc., and with the other churches in the cit\- 
is laboring for the salvation of men and for that righteousness among the 
people that exalteth a nation. 




Rev. Edwin P. Moulton, 

Pastor Randall Memorial Free Baptist Church. 



'■^ 



ti 





^-&^^ 



-i/«f^;!^.\lj- '1l:i. 



^^o^^ 




Randall Memorial Free Baptist Church, 

(Now being erected on New Cross Street.) 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AMD PRESENT. 289 

THE PERKINS STREET BAPTIST CHURCH. 

P)V Re\. John K. ( \o\\. 

This church was organized May 4, iS45,witli fourteen members. It was 
first known as the Xeck \'illage P^aptist Church, later as the Charlestown 
and Somerville Baptist Church, and in August, 1S53, as the Perkins Street 
Baptist Church. The first meeting-house occupied by the church was erected 
at the corner of Main and Haverhill streets, Charlestown. In the summer 
of 1853 it was removed and located on Perkins street, Somerville, at the same 
time being somewhat enlarged. In 1864 the house was remodelled, and on 
Monday, January 8, 1866, it was destroyed by fire. In June. 1867, a new 
house was dedicated, of a size to accommodate six hundred persons and 
costing 525,000. In 1873 the meeting house was further enlarged to a seat- 
ing capacity of a thousand persons. This house still stands, being occupied 
by the East Somerville Baptist Church. 

The church has had seven ministers. \\'illiam Stow Avas ordained June 
25, 1845, on the day in which the first meeting-house was dedicated and the 
church was publicly recognized by its sister churches. Mr. Stow's ministry 
continued five years and two months. C. H. Topliff was ordained September 
30, 1850, and continued in service one year and seven months. N. M. Wil- 
liams entered on his ministry with the church in August, 1852. The change 
in the location of the house of worship and in the name of the church was 
made under his leadership, which lasted seven years and nine months. J. 
Judson Miller was ordained September 17, 1861, and remained the successful 
and beloved minister of the church and the community till his resignation 
of the ofiice, October 3, 1880, a period of nineteen years. William A. Smith 
came to the church from Cleveland, Ohio, in July, 1881, and materially in- 
creased the congregations and enlarged the church acti\'ities. His ministry 
covered a period of about eight years, closing in March, 1889. C. L. Rhoades 
assumed the charge of the church in December, 1889, and resigned his oftice 
in March, 1890. During the later years of Mr. Smith's service unfortunate 
dissensions arose, which culminated in the withdrawal, in March, 1890, of 
about two hundred members, including Mr. Rhoades, who formed the East 
Somerville P>aptist Church. In July, 1890, the five hundred members of the 
church still remaining were deprived of the use of the church edifice by a 
bare majority in the society which controlled the property. Though thrown 
into confusion by this action, the leaders of the church arranged for the 
carrying on of preaching services, at first in Arcanum Hall and later in the 
I-'ranklin street Congregational meeting-house by the courtesy of the body 
worshiping there. Steps were also taken for the erection of a new house 
on the present lot, near the corner of Cross and Pearl streets. Warned by 
the experience through which it had just passed, the church became incor- 
porated August 29, 1890, under the present State lawfor the incorporation of 
religious bodies. Rev. Andrew R. Moore became the minister January i, 
1 891. In May, 1892, the new meeting-house which had been erected at a 
cost of $46,000 was dedicated. Mr. Moore closed his labors with the church 



290 S()mi:r\ii.li:, iwsr .\\n I'Ri-.si-.xr. 

September i. iS<^, and the present minister. John R. (iow. succeeded to the 
office in July, iS(,5. After many revisions of the roll, tiie church reports 
three hundred and s<\ cnty-three resident members. 

LMUX S(JIAKK r. AI'lI.Sj (IK kCH. 

'J'his, the latest addition to the numerous houses of worship of Somer- 
ville is one of the handsomest structures in the city. For a long period the 
society had sorely felt the need of a permanent home, its large and increas- 
ing number of members being but poorly accommodated in the hall in which 
its meetings were held, and a number of elTorts were made to obtain suffi- 
cient funds to permit the erection of a proper edifice. 

After many struggles and disappointments the necessary amount was at 
length obtained to warrant the undertaking. (Iround was broken on the lot 
owned by the society on Walnut street, August 12, 1.S95. The corner-stone 
was laid with appropriate ceremonies and addresses. October 3, following. 
The building was completed for occupancy in June, 1896. and on the four- 
teenth of that month the first services in the churcii were held. The edifice 
is a most sightly one, the towers and handsome windows of stained glass of 
various designs giving it a very attractive appearance. It is of wood abo\e 
the first story, which is of brick, with slated roof and copper gutters. 'l"he 
main entrance is at the base of the large tower, with other entrances on Wal- 
nut street and (}iles park. The plans were prepared by Architect Warren 
K. Hayes of Minneapolis. Minn., and the building contract was awarded to 
John A. Dodge. 

The growth of the society has been stead\ . and it has now a member- 
ship of nearly two hundred. Soon after the laying of the corner-stone the 
pastor, Kev. K. J. McKenna, on the 6th of October, resigned. He had been 
in failing health several months, and upon his retirement Rev. R. B. Moody 
was engaged as stated supply for the puljMt and later as acting pastor. At 
the annual business meeting last January, the following ofiicial board was 
elected for the year 1896: Deacon, (three years) A. B. Gookin, (two years) 
I. H. r.rown, (one year) T. M. Maddison ; moderator of business meetings, 
(i. M. Wadsworth: clerk, G. H. Streeter; treasurer, A. ( ). Taylor; Sunday- 
school superintendent. W. I'. McGeouch. 

Wl.X'i'Kk 1111, L B.MTlsr (111 kCH. 

The Winter Hill liaptist Church was organized June 27, iSSi. and the 
first church meeting was held on that day. A council was called for June 
2S, iSSi, to recognize the church as a regular Baptist Ghurch. 

The church was recognized by a unanimous vote and the recognition ser- 
vices were held in the evening as follows : sermon by Rev. J. J. Miller, prayer 
by Rev. J. Cooke, and giving the right hand of fellowship by Rev. Mr. Lisle. 

At a meeting on July 5, iSMi, the first Sunday-school superintendent 
was elected and the first pastor was called. .August 30. iSSi, it was voted 
to call a council of churches to ordain the newly elected pastor. 




^f^-mitm^^i 




Rev. William J. Day, 

Pastor Winter Hill Baptist Church. 




> 

< 



in 



X 

U 



SOMERIVLLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 293 

[aniiary i, 1S82, the first pastor resigned. Temple Hall, the first place 
of worship, was furnished and an organ purchased. 

April 17, 1884, it was decided to hold services in Weldon hall. 

April 30, it was voted to call a council for the ordination of the pastor 
elect, and several were received by letter from the Perkins-street Church. 

June 2, 18S4, it was voted to appoint a committee of three whose duties 
shall be to look after a lot of land, solicit funds, and any and all things per- 
taining to building a house for God's worship. 

November 26. the pastor's resignation was accepted. 

April 30, 18S5, a call was given to the pastorate, and on June 6 it was 

accepted. 

March 18, 1886, it was voted to authorize the circulation of a paper soli- 
citing subscriptions for funds to purchase a lot of land upon which to erect 
a church edifice. 

June 24, 1886, it was voted to change the name of the church to Winter 
Hill Baptist Church. 

November 4, 1886, a numerous land committee was appointed to devise 
means for raising money. 

April I, 1887, a committee was appointed to look after the legal organi- 
zation of the church, and on April 21, the church adopted by-laws for the 
corporation, and elected officers. ( )ne clerk served the church from its or- 
ganization to this date. 

May 5, 1887, it was voted to authorize the trustees to purchase a lot on 
School street for a house of worship, and that it was expedient to proceed 
to build. A building committee of fifteen was appointed. 

October 8, 188S, ground was broken and the building to which the 
church had looked forward so long began. The new house was dedicated 
with appropriate services on the evening of April 10, i.s8(;. 

The building is a modern structure, combining the (^ueen Anne with 
some Gothic and classical features. The rural English church architecture 
best describes the style of the building. The edifice is ninety feet in length. 
The auditorium is forty feet wide and fifty feet in length. The front of the 
building is seventy feet in width. The tower to the left of the main entrance 
on School street is twenty feet square and seventy feet in height. The main 
entrance under a wide archway opens into an ample and attractive vestibule, 
to the left of which are the ladies' parlor and toilet rooms. Wide double 
doors open to the right of the vestibule into the vestry room, which is very 
pleasant, being provided with a fire-place mantel and mirrors, and will seat 
sixty or more. Beyond this is the library room. The rooms on the second 
fioor consist of one in the tower, an ample hallway and a gallery which will 
seat eighty-five. 

During its history of fifteen years, the church has been served by the 
following pastors: Rev. L. H. Abrams, who served the church from July, 
1881, to January i, 1883 ; Rev. Samuel Hill, January, 1883, to January 2, 1884 ; 
Rev. Wm. D. Ward, February, 1884, to November 6, 1884; Rev. Joseph F. 
Bartlett, June, 1885, to March 11, 1S88 ; Rev. Edward D. Mason, April, 1888, 
to June 5, 1 89 1 ; Rev. Wm. J. Day, May i, 1892, to the present time. 



2(^4 SOMIIRI/I.l.i:, I'.IST AXn PRKSKXr. 

WW. IlROADW.W COXCKKCA riONAI, rniRcii. 

Tlie movement which resulted in the establishment of this church began 
with the formation of a Sabbath-school, l)y a few Christian people of Winter 
Hill, in August. iS(.3. The school opened with about fifty members, in 
I'.roadway Hall, situated on Ikoadway, at the foot of Winter Hill. .Soon 
stated preaching was inaugurated. Rev. K. Porter 1 )yer being engaged for 
the purpose. An ecclesiastical society was formed, and services were con- 
tinued in the hall until the 21st of June. 1S64. when the church, organized 
the 14th of June preceding (the result of plans instituted the 24th of Decem- 
ber, i.S<^)3», with the society, dedicated a new church building at the corner 
of Uroadway and Central streets. This building was occupied until the 
night of December <;. iS6r). when it was destroyed by fire. Owing to finan- 
cial difficulties which had long embarrassed the enterprise and which led to 
litigation, the church was left to its fate, without home or shelter. The 
Sabbath following the tire the church assembled in a new dwelling-house 
on Sycamore street, owned by Mr. Samuel ( )akman, a member of the church. 
On that day the acting pastor. Rev. E. P. Dyer, preached his last sermon. 
Rev. K. P. Marvin was secured as temporary supply, and under his ministry 
the church gained twenty-three members. Increase of attendance led to 
removal to the town hall in the Forster schoolhouse, where services were 
continued from July 7, 1X67, until January iS, 1.S68, when the church re- 
moved to a new chapel on Sycamore street, erected by Mr. Oakman and 
tendered to the church free of rent. In February, 1868, Rev. Samuel H. 
\ irgin of Andover was ordained as minister, and was duly installed as first 
pastor of the church October 27 of the same year. During all this period 
since the fire the expenses had been met by voluntary contributions, but in 
I line, 1S69, another ecclesiastical society was formed. On account of poor 
health. Mr. \irgin resigned in February, 1871. Early in the summer of that 
year the society voted to build a chapel at the corner of Central street and 
Proadway, the site of its former meeting-house, the land having been do- 
nated for the purpose by Mr. Samuel Oakman and Mrs. C. Eldridge, the 
original owners. The new and beautiful house of worship was completed 
and dedicated December 10, 1871, just five years after the burning of the 
former church. Rev. William H. Pierson of Ipswich was installed pastor, 
.\ugust 29, 1872, and officiated as such to both church and society until 1879, 
when, in consequence of a change in his theological views, other means of 
relief failing the church, it, in compliance with advice of an ecclesiastical 
council, voted to vacate the building, which it did in January. 1880, and com- 
menced services in the chapel it had formerly occupied on Sycamore street. 
The ecclesiastical society did not continue its connection with the church 
in this movement, but remained in the old building and under the ministry 
of -Mr. Pierson. In 1.S.S3 i,S84 the church erected a building on Sycamore 
street on the present site of the church home. The church after the separa- 
tion had for ministers : Rev. .\. H. (Juint. I ).l ).. from January, 1881. to May 1. 
1884, acting pastor ; Rev. Lewis \'. Price, from September 1, 1884, to June 




Rev. Horace H. Leavitt, 

Pastor Broadway Congregational Churcli. 




Broadway Congregational Church, 

Svcamore Street, Winter Hill. 



SOMKRl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 297 

12, 1888, installed; Rev. Charles E. Andrews, from September i, 1S89, to 
March i, 1891, installed ; Rev. Joseph F. Lovering, from August i, 1891, 
to August I, 1893, acting pastor ; and Rev. Horace H. Leavitt from January 
I, 1894, installed, the present incumbent. In the fall of 1894, because of 
large additions to the church membership during the year, and marked in- 
crease in the congregations, the question of enlarging the church edifice 
was agitated, though there still existed a debt for the building then in use 
of about $6,000. The church, which man\- years before had become incor- 
porated as a legal organization, voted, in the spring of 1895, to remodel and 
enlarge its edifice, and some ^; 10,000 was contributed for the purpose. The 
work was undertaken at once and the new structure was dedicated in April, 
1896; the church having, howe\er, a few weeks previous, through the 
pledges (payable monthly, for three years) of its members and members of 
the congregation, taken up the entire outstanding debt of the church and 
the interest thereon for three years, amounting to about $24,000, so that 
the building and its complete fittings could be dedicated practically free 
from debt. 

The church is now finely equipped with the best and most ample facili- 
ties, and is in a prosperous condition and growing rapidly. 

Its present membership is about 340, its congregation between 300 
and 400, and its Sabbath-school about 400 members. 

DAY STREET CONGREGATKJNAL CHURCH. 

By Re\. Petkr Ma( (^)ukkn. 

Preliminary action was taken looking to the formation of a Congrega- 
tional Church in West Somerville in the autumn of 1873. 

Beginning with Sunday, December 14, religious services were regu- 
larly conducted by Rev. C. L. Mills, representing the Massachusetts Home 
Missionary Society. 

April 14, 1.S74, the West Somerville Congregational Church, with a 
membership of fifty-two, was regularly organized by council, Mr. Mills act- 
ing as pastor until the following June, when ill health compelled his retire- 
ment. 

For two and one-half years the church worshipped in a hall in Claren- 
don Block, and the six months following in the M. E. Chapel on Holland 
Street. 

During the summer of 1876 a house of worship was donated to the 
society by the East Cambridge Evangelical Society, through the Massachu- 
setts Home Missionary Society. 

This building was taken down, removed to the present site and rebuilt, 
being dedicated December 4, 1876. This necessitated an indebtedness of 
$5,500, which was carried until the autumn of i88r, when, largely through 
the efforts of its pastor. Rev. C. B. Summer, a sufiicient amount was pledged 
to pay the same. In the spring of 1882, through the kindness of friends of 
the church, a bell was purchased and hung in the belfry. In the summer of 




Rev. Peter MacQueen, 

Pastor of Day Street Congregational Church. 



SOMERllI.I.E, PAST AND PRESENT. 299 

1S88, $1,200 was raised and applied to interior improvements and decorations 
of the church building, consisting of new windows, new cushions, new car- 
pet, etc. 

Again, in 1896, the church was completely renovated and beautified, 
and a new Gothic front and Renaissance tower were added. The design of 
the building was so entirely recast as to present an absolutely modern 
structure. 

The membership of the Day Street Church is composed of kindly, 
genial folk, who are religious in a quiet, cheerful way, and evermore benev- 
olent, and in all ways charitable. No one need ever feel the world is cold 
or life is dreary who enters this comfortable Christian atmosphere. The 
church sets itself to dignify life and labor, and set a star of hope above every 
cradle and every cofiin. 

The pastors and acting pastors have been as follows : Rev. C. L. Mills, 
April, 1874, to June, 1874, acting; Rev. James M. Hubbard, June, 1874, to 
January, 1875, act. ; Rev. Albert Bryant, February, 1875, to January, 1880; 
Rev. W. F. F.acon, January, 1880, to April, 1880, act.; Rev. C. B. Summer, 
June, 1S80, to November, 1882; Rev. H. C. Hitchcock, November, 1882, to 
January, 1893; Rev. Peter MacQueen, April, 1893. 

FFRST CONGREGATIONAL (UNITARL\N) CHURCH. 

The First Congregational (Unitarian) Church is the mother church of 
the city. One autumn day a little more than half a century ago, the Rev. 
Richard Manning Hodges was walking through the green fields and orchards 
along the main road that led from Charlestown to Cambridge, over the 
farms of what is now known as the city of Somerville, when, as he tells us 
in his diary, "the thought occurred to him that he might make himself 
useful as a religious teacher to many aged persons, young children and 
others, who from the long distances were prevented from attending church 
in these first-named towns." But when Mr. Hodges came here on a certain 
Sunday in March, 1844, to hold religious service, he found that Miss Eliza- 
beth Page Whittredge, the teacher of the district school, had already on a 
Sunday in June, 1842, in the first year of the town's incorporation, gathered 
her pupils and other children on Sabbath mornings, to instruct them in the 
simple truths of the (xospel, and to hold up before their hearts the sweet 
and attractive example of Jesus. So the good woman and the good minister 
united their forces, — the little church and the little Sunday-school, with the 
result that in August of this same year, 1844, a religious society was orga- 
nized, and the corner-stone of the first church was laid upon what is now 
Central Hill park. 

Within half a century, four new churches were builded by the founders 
of this society and their successors, three of them upon the same site. The 
first church was dedicated in September, 1845. 'i'^e second church, after 
the destruction of the first by fire, was completed in April, 1854. The third 
church, after the destruction of the second by fire, was dedicated in January, 




First Congregational (Unitarian) Church. 

The old edifice on Central Hill. 





Rev. William H. Pierson, 

Pastor First Congregational (Unitarian) Society. 



^o: 



somi:r\ii.i.i:. I'ast .\.\n i'ri-.si.xt. 



iSCh;. The corner-stone of the fourth c hureh was hiid ui^on its present site 
on HiL,fhland avenue, June. iS.>4. This edifice, designed by Hartwell and 
Richardson of lioston, with Sunday-school rooms, parlors, memorial win- 
dows and all the accessories for the social and religious work of a modern 
church, cost with the land and appointments, not far from 5S0.000. which 
was largely secured by the sale of the old church to the city. Through the 
efTorts of the pastor and the contributions of the citizens, stimulated by a 
special and generous gift, the church is the possessor of a tine chime of 
eleven bells, from the old Paul Revere founderies of Boston. 




FIRST CONGRliGATlONAL ("UNITARIAN! CHURCH. 



Rev. John Turner Sargent, the friend and defender of Theodore Parker, 
was the first pastor of the church. He was installed in 1S46. and was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Augustus R. Pope, a most e.xcellent man and minister : 
Rev. Charles Lowe, afterwards secretary of the .American L'nitarian Asso- 
ciation : Rev. Henry H. l^.arber, now professor in Meadville I'niversity, Pa. : 
and Rev. John S. Thompson, a graduate of O.xford, Eng., and now settled 
in Los Angeles, Cal. 

The present pastor. Rev. W. 1 1. I'ierson. a graduate of Kowdoin College, 
came to the Winter Hill Congregational Church, Somerville, in 1S72. His 
pastorate lasted nearly nine years, during which time his theological opin- 
ions underwent a change, and after a ministry of ten years at l-itchburg, he 
returned to Somerville, and was installed pastor of the I'irst I'nitarian 
Church, April. iS'^i. 



SOMKRlll.LE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 303 

The First I'nitarian Church, if we may accept an impartial and unso- 
licited testimony, " is one of the strongest and richest church-organizations 
in the city : it has a good working force, a wide and intelligent constituenc}'. 
and, in a quiet way, is doing a good deal for the denomination at large, as 
well as for charities at home." 

Our limits will not allow further mention of the founders, benefactors, 
past and present supporters of this society, but we may speak of the special 
devotion of one of its members, the late Columbus lyler, who bequeathed 
to the church nearly the whole of his large estate. 

The purpose of the present management of the Church is to develop a 
broad, catholic, humane organization. In its preaching and in its services, 
the life, influence and teaching of Jesus of Nazareth is held in utmost love 
and reverence ; and if the same insistence is not put upon theories and 
doctrines as in other communions, much stress is laid upon ethical in- 
fluences, upon the deep, underlying sentiments of the soul, and ujDon the 
constraining need of character, worship and religion. 

FIRST ORTH()F)()X CONGRFGATIONAL CHURCH. 

This church was. as its name indicates, the first of the Congregational 
denomination established in Somerville, and from it, as the parent church, 
the various colonies which have grown into prominent church organizations 
have received much aid and strength. 

The first formal meeting, with a view to the founding of a church of the 
Orthodox believers, was held at the house of Temple Paul, Xo. 17 Mt. Ver- 
non Street, April 21, 1S53. ( )n September 15, 1.S53, at the house of Ebenezer 
Davis, the " First Orthodox Congregational Society " was legally organized. 
'!"he corner-stone of the first church edifice was laid October 10. 1.S54, 
and the building was dedicated July 12, 1.S55. By an ecclesiastical council, 
presided over by Rev. Xehemiah Adams, on May 3, 1S55, the church was 
duly organized according to Congregational polity, thirty-nine persons con- 
stituting its membership. The sermon on this occasion was delivered by 
Rev. E. N. Kirk, of Boston. 

On the following evening, officers were chosen as follows : deacons. 
Ebenezer Davis, Oliver Dickson, Joseph Lovett ; examining committee, 
X. J. Knight, Joshua H. Davis, James L.Tyler, O. H. Granville; treasurer, 
Joseph Lovett: clerk. Moses H. Sargent. 

On January 3, 1S56, Rev. Benjamin Judkins, Jr., was installed as pas- 
tor, the sermon being by Rev. A. L. Stone, of Boston. 

On March 16, 1S67, the "holy and beautiful house" was burned. The 
corner-stone of a new church was laid August 27, 1S67, and the present edi- 
fice on the original site on Franklin street was dedicated September 30, i(S68. 

The names of pastors are as follows: Rev. Benjamin Judkins, Novem- 
ber, 1855, to June 2, 1858 ; Rev. David T. Packard, July, 1858, to November 
28, 1866; Rev. Lucius R. Eastman, Jr.. March. 1867, to May 22, 1871 ; Rev. 
William S. Hubbell, February, 1872. to November 22, 18.S1 ; Rev. William 




First Orthodox Congregational Church, 

Franklin, opposite Perkins Street. 



SOMERl'ILLE. I'AST JXD PRESENT. 



0^^ 



E. Merrinian, 1). I).. December, iSSr, to June i, 1SS7 ; Rev. James H. Ross, 
September i. (SSS, to April 5, 1X93. 

At one period in its history tiie membership of the church exceeded 
hve hundred. On April i, 1S96, there were three hundred and sixty-four 
members. Rev. James M. Gray, of Jioston, has recently served as pastor 
in charge. The Sunday-school and various societies connected with the 
church have been actively engaged in the interests of morality and religion, 
and fruitful in good works. At the present time, the deacons are Henry F. 
Sears, John P. Heath, Barna S. Cole, Charles H. Colgate, Henry M. Moore. 
The treasurer is George E. Dustin, and G. A. Southworth is clerk. 

C. H. Colgate is superintendent of the Sunday-school. 

HIC;HLAM) CONGREGATIONAL CHCRCH. 

Hv Rev. (;eok(;k S. K. Anderson. 

The Highland Congregational Church, organized November 11, 1X94, 
with a membership of forty, was incorporated November 2S, 1S94, and recoo-- 
nized by the council. January 21, 1X95. 

The first movement which finally led to the organization of the High- 
land ( "hurch was a series of open-air meetings, conducted by E. P. Dunham 
and others, during the summer of 1S93 ; but it was not until the following 
year that the work assumed definite shape. In July, August, and Septem- 
ber, i,S94, gospel tent-meetings were held under the auspices of the free 
Congregational Church of Somerville, and of the Home Missionary Society 
of Mass. The meetings were conducted by Rev. Geo. S. K. Anderson, 
whose services were secured through the Evangelistic Association of New 
England. The large blessing which crowned the work encouraged the 
people to go forward, and before the closing of the tent-meetings they 
voted to organize a church, and to call Mr. Anderson to be its pastor. The 
lot of land, containing sixteen thousand feet, on the corner of Highland 
avenue and Lowell street, on which the tent was pitched, was purchased 
ni November, i<S94, for 53. .S35, and a contract for a S6,ooo chapel was placed 
with Messrs Osgood iS: Stevens. 

During the fall and winter of 1.S94-95 the meetings of the newly organ- 
ized church were held in Guild Hall, Central street, in a vacant store' on 
Cedar street, and in the homes of the people. 

On Easter-Sunday morning, April 14, 1X95, nine and a half months after 
the first tent-meeting was held, the new building was formally opened, and 
on May S, iSgj, was appropriately dedicated to the service of Almie-htv 
God. 

( )ne unique and highly commendable feature of this work is that the 
church has been built, and all present obligations met without the aid of a 
single bazaar, fair or entertainment. The church is a free church. No seat 
can be rented or sold. It is a church for the masses, and both pastor and 
people desire to make it a great life-saving station. 



3o6 soMr.Riii.i.i:. r.isT .\xn i'ri:si:.\i. 

I'ROSl'K.CI' mi, I, CONCKKC. \ ri< >N \i. ( 111 R( il. 

\\\ ki:v. i;i>\V\KI> >. I'KAli. 

The I'rospect Hill Congre.ijational Church was organized December 
:io. 1S74, in l^acon Hall, Inion square, with sixty-one charter members, 
thirty-seven of whom are now living. The recognition sermon was preached 
by Kev. S. K. Herrick. D.I)., of Boston. Inasmuch as the first meeting- 
place of the few people who afterward organized the church was in Dea. M. 
v. Klliot's house on Prospect Hill — a hill associated with the early history 
of the Revolution — it was voted to call the new church I'rospect Hill 
C'hurch. 

Rev. .\. K. Winship was installed as the first pastor. I'ebruary 9, ifSjf). 
and for nine years held the office with the increasing affection and regard of 
his people. In October, 1SS3. Rev. Mr. Winship resigned, and on May s. 
iS,S4, the present pastor. Rev. K.dward Sampson Tead, was installed. 

The first house of worship, situated on Warren avenue, was dedicated 
in 1S76, and became the property of the Inion .Square Presbyterian Church, 
October i, 1887. 

In October, 1889, the present house of worship was dedicated. Rev. 
.Alexander McKenzie, D.D., of Cambridge, preaching the sermon. Mrs. 
Louise Ordway Tead wrote the dedication hymn. 

The edifice is one of the finest in the city, and has a seating capacity of 
seven hundred. The church is progressive in its methods of work, and its 
influence for good is recognized by all as powerful and permanent. 

WINTKR 1111.1. COXGRKC.A riONAI. (Ill RCH. 

\\\ I\l.\. CUAKI.rS I.. XoVKS. 

In August, isr)3, under the leadership of Samuel A. Carlton, now of 
Boston, a few Christian people of Winter Hill organized a Sabbath-school, 
there being then no public religious services of any kind held nearer than 
the Unitarian Church, Highland avenue, the Cross-street UniversalLst, or 
the Franklin-street Church, East Somerville. 

.\s an outgrowth of this Sabbath-school an ecclesiastical society was 
soon organized, and Rev. K. Porter Dyer of Ilingham, .Mass.. was engaged 
as acting pastor. On June 14, isr.5, a church was formally organized, num- 
bering twenty-eight members. 

The ministry of Mr. Dyer having terminated in December, isr/), was 
followed by that of Rev. K. P. Marvin, but the first regularly settled pastor 
of the church was the Rev. Sinuiel II. \ irgin, who was ordained and in- 
stalled October 27, 1868. and filled the pastorate until February, 1871. He 
was succeeded, August 29, 1872, by Rev. W. H. Pierson, who served until 
January 30. 1881. 

.About this time the membership of this church was divided. .\ part 
withdrew, and were recognized ecclesiastically as the Ikoadway Congrega- 
tional Church. The portion remaining with the society continued its ser- 



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SOMKK17LL/-:, PAST AND PRESENT. 309 

vices and Sabbath-school until they united with other Christians worship- 
ing with them to constitute the Winter Hill Congregational Church, which 
was organized January 24, and formally recognized by council January 29, 
1SS3. The society then changed its name to the Winter Hill Congrega- 
tional Society to conform with the Winter Hill Congregational Church, 
which it accepted as the church of the society. 

'I'he present pastor. Rev. Charles L. Noyes. who had been serving in 
this capacity since June, 1SS2, was duly installed as pastor, June iS, 1883. 

Since its organization the Winter Hill Congregational Church and So- 
ciety have enjoyed nearly fourteen years of uninterrupted growth and pros- 
perity. A debt of fifteen hundred dollars (Si 500) has been paid off, and 
resources gathered for the erection of a new building at a cost of 530,000, 
to accommodate the growing congregation and Sabbath-school. The mem- 
bership, which began with 43, has increased to a total of 210. 

The Sabbath-school, which in 1883 numbered 170 and was divided into 
\(\ classes, has now 250 on its lists — 222 scholars, 20 teachers and 8 officers. 

Throughout its entire history the church has been efficiently aided, 
and much of its best missionary work has been done, by a Ladies' Society. 
They took the initiative both in raising the old debt and in starting the 
fund for the new editice. 

ST. ANN'S (CATHOLIC) CHURCH. 

In October, 1S77, land was purchased by Father McGrath, on the corner 
of Medford and Thurston streets, as a site for the church, and four years 
later St. Ann's was erected. Three weeks after the dedication of the edi- 
fice, which took place September 25, 1881, Rev. John B. Galvin was installed 
as pastor, who said his first mass in the church on the 23d day of October 
in the same year. 

Father Calvin's work in St. Ann's parish has been principally devoted 
to the spiritual building up of his people. For this purpose among other 
things he has had missions given by the Passionist, Redemptionist, Jesuit and 
Paulist Fathers. Among the material improvements he has made in the 
church edifice may be noted the beautifying of the interior by frescoing, the 
enlargement of the vestries, the reconstruction of the main altar and the 
placing of new side altars, the addition of vestibules and a very tasteful 
facade and tower. 

November 27, 1894, the church was partially destroyed by a fire, the 
tower, roof and the upper portion of the walls being partly consumed. In 
two months after the fire, however, notwithstanding the advent of very cold 
weather and several severe snowstorms, the edifice was rededicated and 
made to appear, interiorly, more beautiful than ever. 

Among the societies attached to this church in addition to the Sunday- 
school maybe mentioned the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, for the care of 
the poor ; the Holy Name Society, whose special object is to cultivate a 
greater reverence for the sacred names of God and Jesus Christ : and the 



3IO so.]//:/cr//./.A\ /'./.sv .i.v/) /'A'/:s/:x/: 

League of the Sacred Heart, whose object is to inculcate a i,^reater love for 
the heart of the God-Man. They are all in a nourishing condition and bring 
many blessings upon the people of St. .Ann's parish. 

Sl\ ( .VlilLKl.XKS (CAllKM.K I fill KCli. 
15v Ki:v. J.\Mi.s J. ( )Hkm:n. 

The last of the trio of churches erected by the Catholics of Somerville 
is the one dedicated to St. Catherine of (".enoa. In iS(;i. the parish of St. 
Catherine was organized, and the Rev. James j. ( )'i;rien placed in charge. 
Ground for the new church was broken in December, 1S91, and the edifice 
was finished in April. iS(;2. The first mass was said on Kaster Sunday of 
that year. 

The present church on Spring Hill is a temporary frame structure, 
one hundred and fifteen feet by si.\ty-five feet, with a seating capacity of 
about one thousand. It stands somewhat back from Summer street. The 
grounds around the church are well kept — the grassy lawn is ornamented 
with tlower-beds and trees. The parochial residence is a large and substan- 
tial building. 

The pastor, Rev. James J. ( )"i;rien, son of the late .Mayor Hugh ( )"l>rien 
of Boston, was born in Boston in 1.S54, and received his early education in 
the public schools of that city. He studied for a short time at Boston Col- 
lege and then entered St. Charles College, Kllicott ( ity. Maryland, from 
which institution he graduated in 1874. He studied theology in St. Mary's 
Seminary, Baltimore, and was ordained a priest by Cardinal Gibbons, De- 
cember 21, 1S7S. For over seven years he labored in .\rlington, and in Feb- 
ruary, 1SS5, was tran.sferred to St. James Church, Jk)ston. In 1S91, he was 
appointed by the Most Rev. John J. Williams to Somerville. Rev. D. W . 
Lenehan is the assistant. 

The congregation of St. Catherine's numbers about two thousand. The 
Sunday-school of the parish numbers about four hundred members. The 
various church societies and social organizations are active in charitable 
and parish work. 

It is the ambition of the people of St. Catherine's Church to erect, in 
the near future, on the top of Spring Hill, an editice adapted to the growing 
needs of the parish. 

FMM.WCKT. (KPISCOr.M.) CHI RCII. 

It is well that the early history of Kmmanucl ( hurch. a prolonged 
struggle against intolerance, partisan fanaticism, and the bitter hostility 
which mistook the zeal of opinion for religion, should remain unwritten. 
The struggle was successful, and the knowledge of that issue is sufficient for 
the present. 

The early formation of the present parish known as Kmmanuel chapel 
dates from Easter Sunday, 1.S62. The place of worship was in a small hall, 




Rev. Nathan K. Bishop, 

Rector Emmanuel (Episcopal) Church. 



c.',-»» 







E.W.MANlihL ErMSCDPAL CHl!R(:il, 
Summer and Central Streets. 



SOMERVILLE. PAST AND PRESENT. 313 

then at the corner of Milk Row and Park street. A moderate congregation 
continued to worship there until December iS, 1862, when a permanent 
organization was effected, as follows : — 

'' We, the subscribers, members of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the 
diocese of Massachusetts, hereby agree to form, and have formed, a religious 
society for the purpose of organizing a free church in the town of Somer- 
ville, subject to the doctrine, discipline and worship of the said Protestant 
Episcopal Church and in continuation of the existing parish, known as Em- 
manuel chapel. 

•' R. P. Benton, Ramsey Clarke, Mortimer Lyon, Jno. ( ). Pierce, Heber ('. 
Lyon, Joseph H. Clark, I'eter j. Barry, Benjamin Woodward, Joseph Proc- 
tor, L. 1). Jackson."" 

Four days afterward, on December 22, 1S62, a legal corporation was or- 
ganized under the provisions of the thirtieth chapter of the General Statutes 
of Massachusetts, and on December 29, 1S62, the first board of parish 
officers was elected, as follows : — 

Clerk, Heber C. Lyon; wardens. Dr. Francis Dana, Mortimer Lyon ; 
vestry, R. P. Benton, Philemon Morey, John O. Pierce, Peter J. Barry, 
Joseph Proctor, Orel Towle, Benj. Woodward ; treasurer, H. C. Lyon. 

At the parish meeting, on Easter Monday, iS63,Mr. Reuben P. Benton 
was elected warden, in lieu of Dr. Francis Dana, who resigned the office. 
Mr. George CuUis was elected on the vestry to the vacancy created by Mr. 
PJenton's election to the wardenship, and two more vestrymen were elected, 
viz. : Ramsey Clarke, E. A. Eitcham. 

At the parish meeting in 1S64, Mr. Joseph H. Clark was elected clerk 
of Emmanuel parish, and has been annually re-elected ever since. Mr. 
Benton was re-elected warden at the same meeting, and has been annually 
re-elected ever since. Mr. Benton was chosen treasurer at that meeting, 
and continued as such till 1.S70, when Mr. Clark was elected and has con- 
tinued as such, ever since. 

At the parish meeting, in 1X65, Mr. Samuel Reynolds, Jr., was elected 
junior warden, I'icc Mr. Mortimer Lyon, resigned, and Mr. Reynolds was 
annually re-elected till his decease in i<SS(), when Mr. Robert H. Gibby was 
chosen. Mr. Gibby declined re-election, and Mr. Geo. A. Gordon was 
elected junior warden, and has held that position until the present time. 

At the diocesan convention in 1864, Emmanuel church, Somerville, 
was admitted to union with the convention, and has been represented at 
every convention since. The first delegates were : Messrs. Benjamin Wood- 
ward, Peter H. Barry and Mortimer Lyon. 

The present officers of Emmanuel church, Somerville, are : rector, 
Nathan K. Bishop ; senior warden, Reuben P. Benton ; junior warden, Geo. 
A.Gordon; clerk, Joseph H. Clark; treasurer, Joseph H. Clark; vestry, 
George L Vincent, Philip Highly, Frank G. Reynolds, Joseph H. Clark ; 
delegates to the diocesan convention, Robert H. Gibby, Geo. A. Gordon, 
George I. Mncent. 



314 SiU!iK\/i.Li:. r.isT AM) J'Ri:sexi\ 

SI'. THOMAS' KI'lSC'Ol'AI. ( III KCH. 
r.v Ki:\. AM'Kkw liKAV. 

In the spring of 1.S63, the late Rev. N. (\. .\llen conferred with Kev. Dr. 
Lambert, late rector of St. John's Church, Charlestown, as to the advisabilit\- 
of establishing the services of the Kpiscopal Church in Kast Somerville. 
Dr. Lambert heartily endorsed the suggestion and at once circulated a sub- 
scription paper to obtain funds for the rent of a suitable room for services. 

At the suggestion of Dr. Childs, a chapel situated on the corner of 
Washington and 'I'ufts streets was rented at .>i25 per annum. Certain 
changes, rendered necessary to make the building suitable for the services 
of the Episcopal Church, were effected, and articles of church furniture 
added. Rev. Mr. .Allen took charge of the work, and on Sunday evenuig. 
May 17. 1X63, the tirst service was held and a sermon preached by the Rev. 
Dr. Randall, afterwards Rishop of Colorado. 

The Sunday following. .^L^y 24, iS63,a Sunday-school was opened, with 
three teachers and nine scholars, under the temporary superintendence of a 
Mr. Whitman of Cambridgeport. The teachers were Mrs. Hatch, Miss 
Wood and Mr. Webb. The school took a recess on Sunday, August 9, for 
three Sundays, and reopened on Sunday, September 6, with an increased at- 
tendance. Evening service on that day was attended by a much larger con- 
gregation than usual. 

Rev. Mr. Allen, having accepted a call to Wrentham. resigned the work 
at East Somerville, officiating for the last time February 5, 1.S65. 

After the lapse of a few months the Rev. F. W. Shelton "entered upon 
the duties as rector, November iS, 1866." He did not remain very long in 
charge of the work. 

The parish had again been vacant for some time when, on the iSth of 
July, 1869. the late Rev. (ieorge W. Durell "entered upon the duties as 
rector in Hawkins' Hall," L'nion square. The church was built in little 
more than a year after, and used for its holy purposes when finished, though 
with a debt upon it. The debt having been discharged, the building was 
consecrated by Bishop Paddock. July 9, 1875. on which occasion the sermon 
was preached by the Rev. Dr. Ikirgess. now liishop of (Juincy. Illinois. 
Mr. Durell continued rector of the parish till the day of his death, .August 
26, 1895. He was greatly beloved and universally regretted. The parish 
register shows that during the twenty-six years of his incumbency he had 
baptized 942 persons, presented 439 for confirmation, otificiated at 527 mar- 
riages and at 755 burials. 

The present rector. Rev. Andrew (iray, D.D., was unanimously elected 
to succeed him. He accepted the election and entered on his work as rec- 
tor, December 15, 1895. The people are taking hold of the work with him, 
and a bright and promising future appears to be in store for St. Thomas' 
Church. 




Rev. George W. Durell, 

Late Rector St. Thomas' Episcopal Church. 




Rev. Andrew Gray, D. D., 

Rector St. Thomas' Episcopal Cluircl 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 31/ 

ST. JAiMES' (EPISCOPAL) CHURCH. 

The parish of St. James" is an offshoot of St. James', North C'aml^ridge, 
and was organized as a mission of that church in 1S75. A small chapel was 
built in 1S76 on Newbury street, near Holland, in which the first service was 
held November 26, of that year. April S, 1 SSo, the edifice was consecrated 
by Bishop Paddock, the whole cost of construction having been paid. 1 )e- 
cember 12, 18S5, this edifice was moved to its present site. On the i8th 
day of November the mission was incorporated into a separate parish, by 
the election of a rector, wardens and vestry, in accordance with the law's of 
the Commonwealth. The rector chosen was the Rev. John W. Suter, who 
was also at that time rector of the Church of the Epiphany, Winchester. 
VhQ wardens elected were Albert S. I'illsbury and William L. Dodge, and 
the vestry consisted of Edwin S. Burroughs, Isaac R. Webber, Silas H. 
Holland, J. Q. Bennett, D. L. Countway, Samuel HoUis, G. G. Little and 
E. R. Clowsen. Edwin S. Burroughs was elected clerk, and Isaac R. Web- 
ber, treasurer. The parish as thus organized was admitted into union with 
the Convention of the Diocese of Massachusetts at its annual convention in 
May, [.SS9. In 1.S92 the edifice was improved by the addition of a chancel 
and parish room, and a dedicatory service was held by the Right Rev. 
Phillips Brooks, Bishop of the Diocese, December 7, of that year. 

There have been three rectors of the parish since its organization : 
the Rev. John W. Suter and the Rev. Thos. Bell, who held the rectorship 
in connection with another parish, and the Rev. Edward P. Lee, the first 
resident-rector. Many of the services have been conducted by Mr. A. S. 
Pillsbury, who has held the Bishop's license as Lay Reader since lanuary, 
I SSo. He has also been warden of the mission, from a period long before 
it was organized into a parish until the present time. The Sunday-school 
work has always had his efficient aid, the superintendency of which he has 
held from the beginning. 

The church is located on the corner of Broadway and Clarendon ave- 
nue. The Rev. Edward P. Lee, rector; Albert S. Pillsbury and John A. 
Dodge, wardens; Isaac R. Webber, Edwin S. Burroughs, William T. Cleve- 
land, Otis E. Phalen, George Melluber, William H. Tweedie, Edward P>. 
Lee, vestrymen. 

EIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 

]!V Rm.\. GeoRGH S. BlTTKKS. 

In September, 1S55, Rev. Abraham Merril, then preaching at East 
Cambridge, sent a local preacher named Rufus Gerrish to Somerville to 
start a Methodist society. A few people were gathered in Franklin Hall, a 
building then standing at the junction of Washington street and Somerville 
avenue. Two weeks after a Sunday-school was started consisting of five 
scholars. The first Sunday-school teacher was Mrs. S. J. Canfield, who 
taught three of these scholars, and Mr. Gerrish taught the other two. This 



3iS soMKRiii.i.i:. j'.isr iXD j'A'i:s/:xj'. 

school increased until it numbered nearly a hundred. I'he fust superinten- 
dent was Joshua Wiley, and the second Asa Mayo, now livinj^in Minnesota. 
After the services had been commenced a class-meeting was established at 
at the residence of Mr. |. 1!. ("antield. Mr. Gerrish continued to supply 
the pulpit until the next April, when he was succeeded by Rev. 1 ). C". Hab- 
cock, who remained one year. The tirst minister appointed by the New 
Kngland conference was Rev. Charles llaker, who was largel\ instrumental 
in the building of the then new church. 

The First Methodist Episcopal Church has had the following pastors 
since the close of .Mr. IJaker's ministry: Oliver S. Howe. IJurtis Judd, 
Franklin Furber. J. H. Owens. Samuel Jackson, Albert Gould, J. W. Ham- 
ilton, \Vm. C. High, John A. Cass. Geo. S. Chadbourne, (Jeo. Whitaker, J. 
\V. Hamilton, George Skene, I. H. Fackard. The present pastor is Rev. 
Geo. S. Futters. The present church building was erected in 1874. It is 
the largest audience room in the city, and the church itself is one of the 
most aggressive religious organizations in Somerville. Its membership is 
577, and its Sunday-school numbers about 700. 

FARR A\FNT F MFTHODISl" Fl'lSCOl'AF CHlRCll. 

Early in 1S72 a few Methodist families in West Somerville, finding 
themselves in a new community, and at a distance from their respective 
churches, met at various private houses and held prayer-meeting services. 

These soon led to meetings in larger places, and in May, 1S72, a class 
of eleven members was formed under the leadership of Rev. W. F. Lacount, 
an aged Methodist minister, who with his family had moved into the place. 
.About this time Dr. (I. .M. Kingman offered the use of an empty room in 
his new block at the corner of Elm street and Highland avenue, now occu- 
pied by Heald's hardware store. Here Sunday services were held consist- 
ing of Sunday-school and prayer meetings, and sometimes preaching by 
Rev. W. F. Facount. May 2.S, 1S72, the first Quarterly Conference was 
held. Rev. 1. W. Hamilton being delegated by Rev. D.Sherman, the pre- 
siding elder of the district, to preside. Rev. F. J. Wagner of Medford and 
Rev. W. F. Lacount assisted in the formal organization of the church. 

The following official board was elected : Trustees : Chas. F. Joyce, 
Eugene 1). Lacount, Walter K. Foster, I'rederick H. 'I'ibbetts, Edward .\. 
Kingman, Jesse Simpson, Silas H. Holland. Stewards: Chas. E. Joyce, 
Eugene D. Lacount, Jacob I''. Emerson, William 1'. Lacount, .Mby J. Warren. 
The organization took the name of the Holland Street M. E. Church, which, 
at the opening of the present edifice, was changed to the I'ark Avenue 
M. I-.. Church. 

July I, 1S72, the board of trustees took on corporate powers in accor- 
dance with the laws of the Commonwealth, and appointed a committee to 
secure subscriptions for the erection of a place of worship. 1-ew in num- 
bers and poor in purse, but full of faith, they succeeded in securing a cheap 
and poorly constructed chapel at an expense of about 5i.fioo. in wiiicii they 




Rev. George S. Butters, 

Pastor First Methodist Episcopal Churcii. 



^ 



1? A 




HiHsr Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Bow Street and Wesley Park. 




Park Avenue Methodist Episcopal Church, 

Park Avenue, near Elm Street. 




Rev. Garrett Beekman, 

Pastor Park A\eiiue M. E. Cluircli. 



SOMER\-ILLE, PAST AXD PRESKXT. 323 

received their first pastor. Rev. A. E. \A'inship, who was appointed to that 
charge April S, 1873. Mr. Winship remained one year, and helped much 
by his enthusiasm in establishin.^- this early foundation of what was to be a 
strong society. The chapel was dedicated May i, 1.S73, Rev. Jefferson 
Hascall delivering the dedicatory sermon. At this time there was a mem- 
bership of twenty-one, which has increased to about three hundred and 
thirty members. In iSSo or iSSi it became evident that a change of site 
must be made, and the property at the corner of Elm street and Park ave- 
nue, now occupied by Dr. Bryant, was purchased and was used as a 
parsonage for about two years. Early in 1882 a part of this property, in- 
cluding the buildings, was sold, the church retaining 40 feet frontage on 
Park avenue, to which was added by purchase 55 feet more, making a lot 
95 feet by 88 feet, on which the present edifice was erected. Rev. L. A. 
Bosworth, Geo. R. Emerson and L. W. Jones were the building committee. 
to whom, by their indefatigable exertions and wise management, the church 
owes its comfortable home for tiie past thirteen years. The present build- 
ing was dedicated February 7, 1883, the dedicatory exercises being under 
the direction of Rev. L). Dorchester, the presiding elder of the district. 
The entire cost of the edifice, including furnishings, was about $12,000. . 

This church has always been a progressive one and a power for good 
in the community. It is thoroughly organized for every department of work, 
having a large Sunday-school, a live chapter of Epworth League, as well as 
a Junior League, and various missionary and benevolent societies. It be- 
lieves it has a work to accomplish in this place and means to do it. 

The following pastors have served the church since its organization : — 

Rev. A. E. Winship, April, 1873, to April, 1874. 

Rev. John R. Cushing, April, 1874, to April, 1875. 

Rev. Albert I). Knapp, April, 1875, to August, 1876. 

Rev. Wm. Full, August, 1876, to April, 1879. 

Rev. Wm. Merrill, April, 1879, to April 1881. 

Rev. L. A. Bosworth, April, 1881, to April, 1884. 

Rev. Gilbert C. Osgood, April, 1884, to April, 1886. 

Rev. A. R. Nichols, April, 1886, to April, 1889. 

Rev. Henry Mathews, April, 1889, to April, 1891. 

Rev. John H. Mansfield. April, 1891. to April, 1894. 

Rev. (Barrett Beekman, the present pastor, received his appointment 
April, 1894. 

The constantly increasing congregations have convinced the oiificial 
board that immediate steps must be taken to provide a larger audience 
room, as well as other facilities for effective church work, and it is expected 
that the needed changes will be carried out early next year. 



;24 SOMKRllLIJ:. PAST AXD PRl-.SliXT. 

IM(»N S(K AKK PRKSr,\'rKklAX (III RCH. 

\\\ KlA. Tlli>MA^ AlKlNSON. 

W as orj^anized by the presbytery of FJoston, in I'ythian Hall, iuesday 
evening. December 14, iSSr.. At the same meeting elders were ordained, 
and over sixty members were received by letter and on profession of faith. 
Rev. C". S. Dewing, D.D.. to whose labors the organization was due. was in 
stalled as the first pastor January 25. 1 8S7. 

In October of the same year the congregation purchased their present 
place of worship from the Congregational society. From the first the con- 
gregation grew rapidly, and in a remarkably short time the church was 
clear of debt. 

In October. iS<;3, Rev. C. S. Dewing. D.D.. closed his pastorate in 
order to accept the position of pastor at large of the New England chur- 
ches. Soon afterwards Rev. Thomas Atkinson was invited to fill the pulpit, 
and having accepted the invitation began his work in January, 1S94. After 
laboring for three months, Mr. Atkinson was duly installed as pastor in 
response to the earnest and unanimous request of the people. 

The membership now exceeds 250. The people are united and en- 
thusiastic, so that the outlook for the future is bright. 

FIR.ST r\l\ERS ALIsr CHIRC'H. 
i;v Rev. L. M. Powkks. 

Memorial services were first held in the Town Hall in 1S53. with Rev. 
George H. Emerson, D.D., as minister. The church was not organized, 
however, until Eebruary 16, 1854. The original incorporators were Ira 
Thorp, Charles Williams, Erastus E. Cole, Reuben Horton, Edwin Munroe, 
David Russell, James S. Runey, J. (^ Twombly, Robert Burrows, David P. 
Horton, Alfred Horton. 

The first chapel was built upon land given by Charles Tufts, for whom 
Tufts College was afterward named. From the beginning the church has 
had a place of infiuence among the religious forces of the city and the I'ni- 
versalist denomination. The present building was erected in 1S69, and the 
Social Hall, a substantial structure, was added in 1S94. 

In forty-three years the church has had seven pastors : Rev. Ceorge 
H. Emerson, editor of the "Christian Leader," Rev. D. K. Clark, Rev. 15. 
K. Russ. Rev. Cleorge H. \ ibbert. Rev. V . S. Ralph, Rev. Charles A. 
Skinner, and the present pastor. Rev. L. M. Powers. The church is now 
in a prosperous condition, and the Sunday-school is one of the largest in 
the I'niversalist denomination. 

It is decidedly a working church. During the winter the church or 
Social Hall is open nearly every night. The following are among the offi- 
cers of the church : deacons, J. I". Nickerson, Arthur \V. Glines, J. W. San- 
born, Irving Smith: C. A. Kirkpatrick, clerk. Parish committee: J. F. 
Nickerson, chairman : L. \'. Niles, C. E. Chiles, Dr. A. H. Carvill. George 




Union Square Presbyterian Church, 

Warren Avenue. 




First Universalist Church, 

Cross and Tufts Streets. 



SOMKRl'lLLE. r.lST AXD rRESEXT. 32? 

Stephens; Seth Mason, clerk; A. Hodgman, treasurer; superintendent of 
Sunday-school, A. A. Wyman ; (ieorge F. Horton. secretary. Sewing circle : 
Mrs. F. 15. Burrows, president. ^■oung People's Chrislian I'nion : Dr. 
George (ireenleaf. president. 

THIRD UNIVFRSALIST CHURCH. 

15V Kk\-. Th.)Mas Kdwarh PdriKKniN. 

Early in iSSi a few devoted Cniversalists, under the leadership of Mr. 
Carmi D. Chamberlin, gathered to discuss the feasibility of organizing a 
Universalist parish in West Somerville. The agitation bore fruit in the 
call, issued |uly i, iSSi, to meet on the 13th of the same month for the pur- 
pose of organizing a Laiiversalist society. Clarendon Hall was engaged as 
a place of worship, and the pulpit was supplied by eminent clergymen, who 
gave their services in aid of the new movement. At a meeting of the parish. 
May 24, 1.SS2, it was voted to engage Mr. R. A. White, a student in Tufts 
Divinity School, for six months. This arrangement continued for nearly a 
year, when the pulpit was again supplied by different ministers until January, 
'1SS4, when Rev. C. A. Skinner, pastor of the First l;niversalist Church, was 
called as pastor, to preach on Sunday afternoons for the new society. 

At the annual parish meeting in April, 1X83, the standing committee 
reported an offer from an interested member to give " a lot of land, sixty 
feet square, on Highland avenue, a short distance beyond the new school- 
house, on the corner of the avenue and a new street called West street.'" 
The desire became strong in the parish to possess an eligible church site, 
and many lots were considered. So intense was the interest in the young 
parish, that it held four meetings in May, 1S83, and at the last one voted to 
buy the land on the corner of Flm and Morrison streets. Time has proved 
this to be the best church location in West Somerville. A year later, further 
agitation and consideration resulted in a vote to build a chapel. Mr. Hosea 
H. Dennison, a faithful member of the parish, was selected as architect and 
supermtendent. In September, 18.84, the work of building commenced, and 
on the last day of the year the Third Cniversalist Church was dedicated. 
Rev. A. A. Miner, D.D., preaching the sermon. September i, 1S89, Rev. 
Mr. Skinner finished his labors with the society, after nearly six years of 
faithful and successful work. Shortly after internal dissensions lessened 
the strength of the parish and caused the departure of some of its most 
generous supporters. In April, 1890, Rev. Charles Macomber Smith, D.D., 
who had been for nearly twenty years a Baptist clergyman in Somerville. 
was chosen pastor, and under his experienced care and Christian guidance 
the church gained in strength and inHuence in the community. After three 
and a half years of faithful labor, Dr. Smith resigned, and was succeeded 
by Rev. Thomas Edward Potterton, who was called to the pastorate No- 
vember I, 1893. The parish has steadily gained in strength, numerically 
and financially, and in spiritual estate, the true test of Christian success. 
The present needs demand an increased seating capacity, and in all proba- 
bility the church will be enlarged at no distant day. 



3 28 SOMERlII.Li:. I'.IST AXD I'RKSKXr. 

WIN IKK 1111. 1. I NlNKkSAl.Isr CIH RCH. 

\\\ RlA. ISAAI I'. ( .MMilMMUN. 

The Winter Hill Iniversalist Parish was first organized at a meeting 
held in the Methodist chapel on the corner of Marshall street and liroad- 
way on the evening of June 23, 1S79. The officers elected at that meeting 
were: Kli Smith, clerk; J. L. Norcross, treasurer, who with CI. T. Ikirnham, 
Edward Glines and Samuel E. Currier constituted the parish committee. 
Services were first held in the Methodist chapel, and later in Temple Hall, 
liroadway, and the pulpit was at first supplied by such ministers as were 
available. 

In October, iSjy. Rev. W illiani A. Start, secretary of the State Con- 
vention, took charge of the parish until June. iSSo. when the Rev. R. Perry 
IJush of Everett was secured as acting pastor, continuing as such until Jan- 
uary, iSSS, when, a church having been built on the corner of Thurston 
street and Evergreen avenue, the time of service was changed from after- 
noon to forenoon, which necessitated the severance of Mr. Hush's connec- 
tion with the parish. 

The first regular resident pastor was settled in iSSS. At a meeting of 
the parish, held June 21, iSSS, a unanimous call was extended to the Rev. 
Isaac Philip Coddington, then of the Grove Hall Church, Boston. The 
call was accepted, and the pastorate began the first Sunday of September of 
that year, and it continues at the present time. In May, 1889, the name was 
changed, on petition to the legislature, to that of Winter Hill Cniversalist 
Church. The very best of good feeling and a large degree of prosperity 
attend this church in all its many departments of Christian work. 

The present ofiicers are: Isaac Philip Coddington, pastor; Parker 
Ridler, president; George Russ, clerk; Herman Barker, treasurer, who to- 
gether with Erastus Woodward and Charles S. Robertson constitute the 
board of trustees; I. B. Mayhevv, superintendent of Sunday-school; .Mrs. 
C. E. Moore, president Ladies' Circle ; Albert Roscoe, president \ . P. C. I'. 
Ethel Moore, president Golden Rule Society ; Gladys Coddington, presi- 
dent of the Busy Bees; Isabella Porter, president of the Flower and Benevo- 
lent .Mission. 

SO.MERX ILEK E\ A.XGELICAL .\SS( )C1 A TlOX (III RCII. 

I'.V RkV. WII.I.IAM K. I'KKUKKICKS. 

This church was organized December 19, 1892. Rev. Edward Freeman 
was its pastor the first two years, until .March, 1895, when W. E. Frede- 
ricks, of Pennsylvania, was appointed pastor. This church is purely We.s- 
leyan in doctrine. While it gives due attention to all the doctrines taught 
in the Word of God, it emphasizes the doctrines of thorough evangelical re- 
l)entance, justification by faith, regeneration or the new birth, and entire 
sanctification as necessary to obtain salvation. It emphasizes the privi- 
lege and necessity of living a holy life in this world. It is democratic in its 
church polity. The pastor is apiiointed annually at the annual conference 






n 



73 

n 

H 



m 
< 



> 
< 




SiKM/:Ki7/./Ji. J'.isj' .ixj) J'A'j:s/:.\j 



of the cinifereiKc district by the presidin.;:^ bishop witli the concurrence of 
the presiding elders of the conference district. All the expenses of the 
church are met liy free-will otlerinjrs. The present membership is 34. Its 
meetings are held in I'.razillian Hall, 271 Broadway. 




IMON SoL'ARE Baptist Churc:h. Prospbct Hill CoNGkfcGATioNAL Church. Flint Strllt .M. E. Church. 
PfcRKiNS Street Baptist Church. W. Somerville Baptist Church. St. Thomas' Episcopal Church. 

SOMERVILLE CHURCHES. 



In addition to the foregoing there are a number of other churches in 
Somerville, several of which have large congregations that are doing valu- 
able Christian work m the community. 

Ihey are named and located as follows: Wnsr Sum kkvii.i.i-; Uaimim. 
on Kim street, corner of Winslow avenue, organized in June, 1.S74; .S r. 
Ioski-h's (Catholic), on Washington street, corner of Webster avenue, ded- 
icated in |une, iSSi ; Bkoadwav Meihodisi' Kimscoi'ai., on Broadway, 
corner of (irant street; l-Mxi Sirkei' MErnonisi. on Flint, opposite Rush 
street, organized in April, 1 S6s, by Rev. (Barrett Beekman, who was its lirst 
pastor; the Seco-ND .Vdvkm, on Putnam, near Summer street, organized 
< )ctober 6, 1SS7 ; the Seconh I'm iarian, on Elm street, near Davis square; 
and the CiHRCii he Cukim'. on I'.roadwav, North Somerville. 



C/) 

2 



o 





Horace C. White. M. D. 



CHARITABLE AND SOCIAL 
ORGANIZATIONS. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

SOMERVILLK HOSPITAL. 
ISv Horace C. White, M. D. 

In its issue of November 24, 1890, the " Somerville Journal '" published 
an article setting forth the need and the advantages of such an institution 
for our city. This article attracted the attention of a benevolent lady. Miss 
Martha R. Hunt, who immediately sent to the mayor, Hon. Charles G. 
Pope, an offer to contribute the generous sum of < 10,000 on condition that 
a like sum be raised from other sources. The Somerville Medical Society 
appointed a committee to raise funds, and several ladies assisted in the 
work of soliciting and collecting subscriptions. In April, iS<;i,the hospital 
was duly incorporated. The names of the^ charter members are as follows : 
Charles G. Pope, John F. Cole. Thomas M. Durell, Horace C. White, A. 
H. Carvill, J. ¥. Wellington, Q. E. Dickerman, M. W. Carr, William Tay- 
lor, A. T. Nickerson, S. H. Holland, G. W. Perkins, G. M. Starbird, L. W. 
Farmer. R. E. Nickerson, Samuel Cutler, Joseph C). Hayden, J. F. Hatha- 
way, L. E. Merry, J. J. Lyons, F. M. Kilmer, J. H. Flitner, H. F. Spencer, 
John F. Couch, Lewis Lombard, L. V. Niles, L. P. Hollander, and F. W. 
1 )owner. 

( )n March S, 1S91, at a meeting of contributors, a report was presented 
by Mayor Pope announcing that between ^s 12,000 and #13,000 had been sub- 
scribed, and thus the gift of $10,000 had been made available. On May 11, 
1.S91, was held the first meeting of the corporation, and committees were 
appointed as follows: — Executive committee: Hon. C. G. Fope, ex (>//^^cy'(', 
H. C. White, A. H. Carvill, H. F. Spencer, M. W. Carr, J. F. Wellington, 
T. M. Durell, c'.v (j^^A'. Finance committee: R. E. Nickerson, J. F. Couch, 
F. M. Kilmer, F. W. Downer, J. H. Flitner. Auditing committee: J. O. 
Hayden, G. W. Perkins. 

The building was erected under the direction of the building committee, 
consisting of the executive committee and A. T. Nickerson. On October 
27, 1.S91, the contract for the construction of the building was awarded to 
the lowest bidder, G. M. Starbird, for the sum of $22,990. The building 
was practically completed February 17. 1S93. Prior to this a gift of #5,000 
was bequeathed to the hospital by the will of Rufus B. Stickney, who by 
this act of noble charity erected to his memor>- a monument more enduring 
than granite or marble. 

33^ 



3.U soMiJun.Li:. I'Asr axd I'RKsEsr. 

'I'he location is an iilcal one, situated as it is on Sjjiing 1 1 ill. and sur- 
rounded by streets on three sides, the abrupt descent of the hill on the 
fourth side precluding the possibility of obstruction by other buildings. 
The grounds are ample enough to permit the erection of additional build- 
ings sufficient to double its present capacity. The jilan of construction is 
such as to furnish a good supply of light and air. The building is so ar- 
ranged that bath-rooms, water-closets, etc., are separated from the patients' 
rooms by cut-ofT corridors, but are not at an inconvenient distance. The 
building for the sick is separated from the e.xecutive department by a corri- 
dor which allows free circulation of air between them : the dining-room, 
kitchen and laundry are separated in like manner from the rest of the 
building. The whole arrangement of the rooms is such as to give sufficient 
isolation of patients, and at the same time there is everywhere a cheerful 
and homelike appearance. 

The corporation consists of contributors and others who render valuable 
aid in the maintenance of the hospital. The trustees are chosen from the 
members of the corporation, one-third of them being chosen yearly for a 
term of three years. The first president of the board of trustees was Hon. 
( "harles (i. Pope, who died just before it was dedicated; the second, Hon. 
William H. Hodgkins. who resigned the office in June, 1896. 

In accordance with the by-laws the board of trustees consists of 
twenty-four members besides the president, vice-president, clerk and treas- 
urer, two members being selected from each ward by the corporation annu- 
ally, said members being chosen for a term of three years. The medical 
board consists of four physicians, of whom two shall be Fellows of the Mass- 
achusetts Medical Society, and two members of tlie Massachusetts Homieo- 
])athic Medical Society, appointed by the executive committee for terms of 
two years. 

It is the duty of this board to provide [ox the medical and surgical ser- 
\ ice of the hospital, and to recommend to the executive committee candidates 
for appointment on the medical staff. Physicians and surgeons who assist 
in the charitable work of the hospital receive no pecuniary compensation 
therefor. The management is such as to leave freedom of choice of physi- 
cians, a member of the above societies being on duty all the time. The 
same spirit of liberality is shown in regard to choice of spiritual advisers. 

The matron reported four hundred and fifty patients treated in 1S95, of 
whom one hundred and nine underwent surgical operations ; this was an 
increase in the whole number of one hundred and twenty-five over the pre- 
ceding year. \\\ the matron's report in May, i.S(/), it appears there were six 
hundred and forty-five ]5atients treated during the year, of whom three hun- 
dred and forty-si. \ were out-patients. 

The total expenditures from .May, iS(;5,to May, i.s<)(), were 5i 2,1 1 5.21 , 
and 51,473.11 was expended for repairs of an extraordinary nature. The 
largest number of patients was thirty-seven, on December 12, and the small- 
est, fifteen, on July 14. Those paying numbered one hundred and eighty- 
two, and non-paying, one hundred and nineteen. 




Thomas M. Durell, M. D. 




RELJBiiN Willis, M. D. 



SOMERllLl.E, J\LST A XL) PRESENT. 337 

The training school for nurses contained fifteen pupils aside from those 
who were graduated. Their earnings outside of regular hospital work were 
5 1 ,520.1s, which is 591 2.(^4 in excess of the amount received from this source 
the previous year. The average cost per patient was Si;. 3 2 per week, while 
for the year iS(;5 it was 59.59. 

The expenses compared with those of other hospitals are less than 
many and do not exceed any of them. The interest manifested from the 
first by the Ladies' Aid and other societies continues unabated, and many of 
our large-hearted and liberal-minded citizens have made generous donations 
for the continued support of the grand work which the hospital is performing 
for the people of Somerville. Many who share the benefits of the institu- 
tion have in reality no home where they can be cared for by loving hands, 
and often those who have all the comforts that a competency aftords prefer 
in case of sickness to enter the hospital, where all the advantages of the best 
medical attendance and the most skilful and experienced nursing and care 
may be had at all times. While those who are able are expected to pay for 
services rendered, none n'lio are 7i.iifIiout means are excluded from its doors. 

In order to provide suitable furnishings for the various rooms and 
wards, many of our citizens and generous ladies made liberal donations. 

The physician's offices were furnished by Mrs. A. A. Sanborn; the trus- 
tees' room by the Sons and Daughters of Maine; the matron's office b\' L. 
\\. Farmer; the woman's ward by the Somerville L^nion of King's Sons and 
Daughters. I^rivate rooms for patients were furnished complete by Mr. and 
Mrs. Henry F. Spencer, Ivaloo Lodge Daughters of Kebekah, Erminie 
Lodge Daughters of Rebekah, Francis C". Perkins, Humphrey P. Webster 
(who gave ,«5oo, the interest to keep the room supplied), S. Adams Clark. 
( )ur Class Association and primary department First Unitarian Sunday- 
school, R. H. Sturtevant, Prospect Hill school and others furnished the 
children's ward, and Mrs. G. M. Scott, the children's playroom ; and valu- 
able contributions of furnishings were donated by S. Newton Cutler, Harri- 
son P)eard iS: Co., Mr. H. AL Beals, Ladies' Hospital Aid Association, Sun- 
day-school of Franklin Street (First) Congregational Church, St. Mary's 
Circle King's Daughters, Misses Ethel Cobb, Maud Shaw, Ruby White, 
(irace Plummer, Milton Harvey, Albert E. Hughes, C. F. Goldthwaite tV' 
Co., L H. Prown, Miss Earl's Sunday-school class, George Gammon, Mrs. 
Col. Iving, employees of I)erb\-, Kilmer iv Pond Desk Co., Mrs. Lames F. 
Davlin, Mr. and Mrs. (i. P. Strong, Rebecca Dart, Little Helpers, King's 
Daughters, Gertrude Jones, Davis school. Prospect Hill school, St. Mary's 
Circle K. I)., Ever Ready Ten K. 1).. Willa Johnson, Bertha Hopkins, Edna 
Robbins, Lottie Draper. Charles G. Pope and Mrs. Pope, Dr. Anna B. 'J'ay- 
lor, ^Lss L. A. Waters, A. S. Willard, .Mrs. E. A. Curtis, Mrs. Ingalls, 
Whatsoever Circle K. D., Broadway Congregational Church, E. H. Marsh, 
Henry W. Tarbell, Grace, Ijessie and Alice Fuller. 

Among those who contributed through the Ladies' Aid Association 
may be mentioned Sarah S. Tufts, Sioo, the Presbyterian Church, West 
Somerville Congregational Church, Shepard tv Xorwell, R. E. Pickthall, 



3;,s soMERi/i.i.i:. J'.isr .i.v/) /•h'/:si:xr. 

West Somerville Baptist I'luiicli, West Soincrvillc Iniversalist Cluirch, St. 
Alines Circle King's Daughters. Mrs. j. 1!. IJolton, (Irace L. Hod.ukins. R. 
H. Riddell. I. I". Hathaway, Mrs. S. I ). Salmon's Circle K. 1)., E. A. South- 
worth, lohn K. Whiting. Mrs. Ivory Pope and others. The contributors of 
sums of 5ioo or more are the American Tube Works, Charles K. Clark, .\. 
H. Carvill, S. Cutler and wife. I). K. Chase & Co.. Derby (S: K-ilmer Desk 
Co.. F. W. Downer, Abbie S. David, employees S. Water Works, George P. 
Kdney, M. P. Klliott. J. H. Flitner. Friend, Charles H. C.uild, Do. trustee. 
A. B. (iookin. Miss Martha R. Hunt. Silas H. Holland, J. O. Hayden, L. 
P. Hollander, J. I". Hathaway. Mrs. Sarah Hall. George W. Ireland and 
wife. (). S. Knapp. C. W. Lyman \- Co., Louis L. Lombard. Ladies' Aid 
Association, A. E. Mann, Rev. C. T. McGrath. L. E. .Merry, Middle.sex 
Bleachery, John Abbot Lodge. North Packing Company, R. E. Nickerson. 
L. V. Xiles, John F. Nickerson and wife, Our Class .Association, Elm Coun- 
cil R. A., F. H. Raymond, Ezra \\. Robinson. Wilbur P. Rice. John P. 
Squire, Somerville Fire Department, Jonathan Stone, K. H. Sturtevant. 
Somerville Police Force, L'nion Hall Co., Lucy AL Stone, G. W . Simpson. 
H. F. Spencer, R. B. Stickney, Mrs. George M. Starbird, estate of, Francis 
Tufts. Martha Tufts, (has. Williams, Jr., A. H. Weld, A. A. Perry, ex- 
ecutor of will of Christiana D. Webber, and Willard C. Ivinsley PostG. A. R. 
All the churches ha\e made contributions from time to time. No other in- 
stitution of Somerville appeals to every resident of whatever party or sect as 
does this, and the donations have come from nearly every social organiza- 
tion and from hundreds of residents, although the majority of the gifts have 
been in moderate sums. 

The treasurer's report, .NLiy 30, iSi/). shows the following facts and 
figures : — 

ASSETS. 

Land and buildings ....... 542.146.22 

I'urnishings 2,684.37 

Surgical instruments S'^o-'"^' 

Starbird fund 500.00 

Webster fund 500.00 

Edney fund 400.00 

Cash on hand 1,166.77 



$47,788.17 



i.iAi',11,1 riKs. 

( ambridgeporl Savings Bank ..... 510,000.00 

Somerville National Bank i .000.00 

Excess over liabilities ....... 36,788.17 



$47,788.17 

i'his does not include a large number of contributions of furnishings 
and supplies which were given directly to the hospital and did not go 
through the treasurer's hands, which amount to probably several thousand 
dollars. 



'^ . 




Alphonso H. Carvill, M. D. 




Henry F. Curtis, M. D. 



SOMEN I 'ILL/:, PAST .iXP I'LESEXT. 34 1 

The dedication of the Iniilding was an occasion of great interest. A 
writer in describing it said : " Karly in the afternoon the institution was 
thrown open to visitors, and the corridors were thronged with women and 
children and a fair sprinkling of men. It is not too much to say that they 
were rather astonished at the completeness of the arrangements, the beauty 
of the furnishings, and, best of all, at the immaculate neatness and cleanli- 
ness of the whole establishment. ... It was easy to see that the public felt 
it was their hospital. It represented even to the children some act of self- 
denial, some gift of money to make the enterprise a success." In the even- 
ing the dedicatory exercises were in charge of Mayor Hodgkins as presiding 
officer, who paid a touching tribute to the late Charles G. Pope, and closed 
an eloquent address by saying that his heart had been stirred by the sight 
of the crowds in attendance, and that the immense gathering of the friends 
of the institution meant that the people intended to support it. 

The Hon. S. Z. Bowman, cit}- solicitor of Somerville, said : " This hos- 
pital is one of the crowning features of our city. Our educational institu- 
tions have grown upon our hills, and now we ha\e reached a fitting climax 
in the erection of this hospital. The parable of the Good Samaritan has 
come down through the ages as the highest type of Christianity. This im- 
mense gathering shows that this establishment has a warm place in the 
hearts of the people." 

Dr. H. O. Marcy, of Boston, in the course of his remarks, expressed the 
opinion that there should be more small hospitals, not only in Cambridge 
and Somerville, but in Boston. He declared it better than to have hun- 
dreds of patients gathered under one roof and treated in gross, and said 
that in such institutions a few patients could enjoy the comforts of home 
and the care of trained nurses. Rev. J. F. Lovering stated that there had 
been nothing in the city which had so " drawn the people together in the 
spirit of the golden rule as this hospital." Another speaker said one pecu- 
liarity of the institution was the uniting of both schools of medicine on its 
board of trustees, declaring that there should be no sect in medicine, and 
that in the presence of man's greatest need there should be but one thought, 
how to cure disease. The policy of its management from the first has been 
so liberal that it has been possible for every creed, nationality, sect and 
race, to join equally in wishing it Godspeed, and to unite in carrying on its 
great work of charity and mercy. 

The benefits derived by the community from such an institution are not 
confined to its high mission in ministering to the sick ; it serves as a com- 
mon bond of union between the difterent sections of the city, and the vari- 
ous elements of which it is composed. 

A feeling of responsibility for its care and maintenance is shared by all 
our people, and by responding to its calls for aid they have learned by happy 
experience the truth of the passage of Scripture which says, " It is more 
blessed to give than to receive." 

To put in successful operation an institution of this kind is no easy 
task, and the care of raising the needed funds should in the main devolve 



34-^ SiKMERiii.i.i:. I'Asr Axn rRi:si:xr. 

upon others rather than those who are responsible for details of mana'je- 
nient. which must of necessity be a matter of daily effort and constant labor. 
The success of the manajjement in securing revenue from paying patients, 
and the advantages derived from the training school for nurses in furnish- 
ing increased income, may well be a source of gratification to our citizens. 
The hospital is one of the many institutions of the city in which every citi- 
zen is justified in feeling an honest pride. 

The officers for 1S96 are as follows: president. Martin W. C'arr : 
vice-president. Sehvyn Z. Bowman: treasurer. John Y. Cole: clerk, Fred- 
erick \V. Stone. 

Trustees. — Ward 1 : Horace (. White, William Taylor, (ieorge M. 
Starbird. Charles Williams, Jr., John 1\ Nickerson, George \V. Perkins. 
Ward II: Alphonso H. Carvill, J. l-rank Wellington, (^)uincy A. \'inal, 
Louville \'. Xiles, John F. Couch, Thomas M. Durell. Ward III : Henry 
F. Spencer, AlvanoT. Nickerson. I, uke N. Farmer, B. Frank Wild, I'rederick 
M. Kilmer, Quincy E. Dickerman. Ward IV: J. Henry Flitner, George O. 
Proctor. James F. Hathaway, Louis E. Merry, Joseph O. Hayden, Edmund 
S. Sparrow. 

Medical Board. — Horace f. White, .\I. D. ; Thomas M. Durell, .M. 1 ). : 
A. H. Carvill, M. 1).: I'rank E. Xewton. .M. 1 ). 

Members of Mass. .Medical Society. — Hospital staff": Thomas Durell, 
M. 1).: Horace C. White, M. D. : William \. Bell, M. D. : Horace P. 
Makechine, M. I).; John F. Couch, M. I).: Reuben Willis, .M. D. As- 
sistants: Giles W. Bryant, .M. D. ; Flenry F. Curtis, M. D. : Edwin H. 
Codding, M. D. : George A. Miles, M. D. : John B. Curtis, M. D. : (i. W. 
W. Whiting, M. 1). 

Members of Mass. Homeopathic .Medical Society. — liosintal staff: A. 
H. Carvill, M. D. ; Robert L. Lane, M. D. : Gilbert E. Hetherington, 
.M. I).: II. Ashton Downs, M. D. ; Forrest Leavitt, M. D. ; Frank L. New- 
ton. .M. D. Assistants: Emma J. Peasley, M. D. : .Anna 1!. Taylor-Cole, 
.M. I).; Eugenie M. Phillips. M. D. : Mary II. Currier. M. I ). Matron: 
Ennna |. Gordon. 




George W. W. Whiting, M. D. 




Frank L. Newton, M.D. 




Emma J. Gcjrdon. 



SOMKRl-JLLE, J'. 1ST .LV/) /'RESLNT. 347 

HOSPITAL LADIES' AID ASSOCLVLION. 

Bv Km.ma J. Peasi.ev, M.D. 

After the completion and opening of the Somerville Hospital, it was 
deemed wise by those familiar with its needs that there should be some 
organized systematic method of securing the necessary funds for carrying 
on the work. Accordingly several ladies and gentlemen met at the home of 
Mr. Rufus R. Wade, talked the matter over, and decided that an association 
which would enlist the sympathies and interest of the ladies of the city 
would be a sure means of obtaining the desired assistance. 

A meeting was appointed at the Pjroadway Congregational Church on 
Sycamore street, on May i8, 1892. Invitations were sent to the pastors of 
all churches, which were read from the pulpit, inviting the ladies of the 
church and congregation to be present. About one hundred responded, and 
the organization of the Somerville Hospital Ladies' Aid Association was 
effected with the election of the following otficers : president, Dr. Emma J. 
Peasley; vice-presidents representing the four wards of the city, Mrs. 
Harrison Aldrich, Mrs. William Hartshorn, Mrs. J. E. Lovering, Mrs. Henry 
JJerins ; directors representing the different religious denominations in the 
city, Mrs. William H. Brine, Mrs. Arthur T. Kidder, Mrs. S. D. Salmon, 
Mrs. A. C. Winning, Mrs. Horace C. White, Mrs. Albert Hughes, Mrs. E. 
M. Howes, Mrs. C. S. Dewing, Mrs. H. M. Burgess — these with the vice- 
presidents constituting a board of directors for the ensuing year; record- 
ing secretary, Mrs. Jason P. Routh; corresponding secretary, Miss Emma 
S. Keyes ; treasurer, Mrs. Albert S. Pillsbury. 

The society became incorporated in Eebruary of the following year, 
and the charter adorns the walls of the trustees' room at the hospital. 

Most of the ladies present at the organization signed as members of 
the association, and the membership increased with unparalleled rapidity 
compared to other organizations in the city, until between nine hundred and 
a thousand ladies and gentlemen had agreed to give one dollar annually to- 
ward the support of the hospital, and six persons joined as life members by 
the payment of twenty dollars. 

One of the first and most important steps taken by the society was the 
establishing of a day know^n as Hospital Sunday, when each church in the 
city takes a collection, which in the first year amounted to over twelve hun- 
dred dollars, the money passing directly into the hands of Mr. John E. 
Cole, treasurer of the hospital. 

Dr. Anna Taylor Cole and Dr. Emma J. Peasley have each given a 
course of lectures, and two receptions, a concert and an opera have been 
given under the direction of the association, the proceeds of which, with the 
funds collected by the members, and donations, have netted many dollars 
for the work. This with the annual dues is used as the association ap- 
proves, either to buy furnishings for the building, or it is presented to the 
treasurer of the hospital to be used by the trustees at their discretion. 




Em.ma J. Peaslev, M. D. 




Anna B. Taylor-Cole, M.D. 




Eugenie M. PniLLii'S, M. U. 



SUMKK17LLE, J'- 1ST .LVD J'RIiSE^T. 35 ^ 

The members assisted at the dedication of the building, and at all the 
social gatherings at the hospital. Two members of the board of directors 
in turn visit the inmates and supply the needs of the hospital as far as pos- 
sible, twice a week for a month. 

The president for 1896 is Mrs. Harrison Aldrich ; secretary. Miss Sarah 
A. Stone, 9 Central street; treasurer, Miss Bertha Knapp, 2S School street. 

ASSOCIATED CHARITIES OF SOMER\ ILLE. 

By Emma S. Kf.ves. 

The Associated Charities of Somerville was formed on December 14, 
1S93. The organizing of Associated Charities had occasionally been talked 
of and desired by a few in different parts of the city, but it was not until the 
hard times of '93 actually forced the need of organized effort upon the at- 
tention of a large number that this society was at last formed. 

Springing up suddenly though it did, the chief organizers gave many 
hours at a time to the consideration of the principles and methods that like 
societies of long experience had found to be the wisest and most practical. 
The foundation of a permanent charitable organization was thus laid upon 
thoroughly tested principles. 

The objects of the society are : " To secure the concurrent and har- 
monious action of the different charities in Somerville in order to raise the 
needy above the need of relief, prevent begging and imposition, and dimin- 
ish pauperism ; to encourage thrift, self-dependence and industry through 
friendly intercourse, and to aid the poor to help themselves ; to prevent 
children from growing up as paupers ; and to aid in the diffusion of knowledge 
on subjects connected with the relief of the poor." 

In the heart of winter, and in the midst of a season of financial distress 
and acute poverty, the new organization found itself, with inexperienced 
helpers, untried methods and an empty treasury, suddenly overwhelmed by 
calls for aid and action. The urgency of the situation helped to solve itself. 
The citizens cordially adopted the new organization as their agent, and 
gave it their complete confidence. 

The work was organized by distributing it among ward committees. 
Each of these considered calls for aid in its own district, and found help for 
deserving and needy cases. It held meetings monthly or. as occasion re- 
tiuired, even more frequently, provided for a force of friendly visitors^ 
opened an otiice in its limits, and secured, free of charge, the services of a 
secretary to give certain hours at the ofiice, have immediate charge of af- 
fairs and keep the records of the ward. 

These ward committees combined form the central board of manage- 
ment, to which all doubtful and difficult cases are referred, and which has 
general supervision of the work. The office in ward three, in the Citizen 
Building, Oilman square, was made the central office, and its secretary, 
general agent of the Charities. 

Up to September i, 1S96. the number of cases of need reported to and 



;,52 soMiiiu/i.i.i:. risr .\.\n rRi:si:.\T. 

investigated by tliis society is 3S7. ( )f these i^)Z have been assisted, 3S 
proved to have given false addresses, and the rest were mostly in need of 
eniploynient alone, as were also many others. About one-half of these peo- 
ple are Americans, the other half represents eleven nationalities. .Special 
work has been done in 54 cases, such as furnishing legal and medical 
assistance, finding homes for children, new homes for families, board in the 
c()untr\- for the overworked, etc. By far the greater proportion were found 
to be worthy, respectable j^eople. anxious to help themselves, suffering 
through no apparent fault of their own, but through misfortune, sjickness, or 
want of emploxment. l-'ully two-thirds had never before received help. 

Efforts to stop begging have in many instances been effectual, and public 
exposure of impostors has materially lessened the number in the city, though 
in one instance even arrest and six months' confinement have not been 
sufficient to deter other members of the same family from begging and 
usnig the name of this society the better to impose upon the credulous. 

A complete system of registration enables the agent at the central office 
to exchange information with charitable bodies at home and in other cities, 
and is of great value especially in the handling of those chronic and re- 
curring cases which drift from place to place, and besiege successively 
different charitable societies and individuals. 

All records are private, and their information is given only to those who 
will use them for charitable purposes. 

A free emj^loyment-bureau connected with the work of the Associated 
Charities depends necessarily for success upon the patronage of the citizens. 
The one great demand is for work, and it is this above all things that the 
unemployed need to be assisted in obtaining, to save them from pauperism 
and the demoralizing intiuence of almsgiving. Kmployment even at low 
wages would solve two-thirds of the difficulties of the poor of all classes. 
In some instances the society has furnished plain sewing, paying a fair 
price according to the cjuality of the work done. This is intended to be 
educational in some cases, as many do not understand the cutting and 
making of the most simple garments, while others are apt and skillful with 
the needle. Last spring the stamp-saving .system was introduced with the 
object of encouraging provident habits even among the children. W ithout 
expense or any risk of loss one can hereby save from a cent to fifty cents and 
receive for it a receipt in the form of a stamp placed upon a folding card, 
which can be redeemed at any time, three dollars entitling one to a bank-book 
and interest. 

The gratitude expressed by nearly all who have been befriended has 
been hearty and sincere. Statistics cannot register the best that has been 
accomplished, for the aim of the society is personal rather than material, to 
help the man as well as to relieve the body, to bring comfort and cheer into 
home and heart, to maintain self-respect, to stimulate self-support, to restore 
to work and health persons and families without loss of courage or dignity, 
and clear of any sense of stain or stigma from their temporary period of 
dependence. 



73 



73 



W) 





Emory i.. White, M. D. 



SOMERt'ILLE, PAST AXD rRESEiVT. 355 

In this effort, notwithstanding many failures, success, as a rule, has 
been so satisfactory that, could the simple facts be known to the citizens of 
Somerville, they would feel themselves amply rewarded for all they have 
expended through the Associated Charities, and would continue to support 
the organization liberally. The officers for 1896 are : Rev. Charles L. Noyes, 
president, 2.) Albion street: Rev. L. M. Powers, secretary. iS Flint street; 
Mr. Nathan H. Reed, treasurer, i,':, Pearl street; Miss Emma S. Keyes, 
agent, 154 Central street. 

SOMERVILLE SAMARITAN SOCIETY. 

15v Elizabeth ARKowsMrrn Waters. 
The Somerville Samaritan Society was organized November 13, 1.S71, 
at the home of Elizabeth A. \\'aters, 132 Perkins street, for the purpose of 
assisting and relieving the needs of the worthy poor in the town of Somer- 
ville, and it rounded out its twenty-five years of charitable work November 
<), is^r.. 

The first meetmg was held on Wednesday afternoon, November S, 1S71, 
at which a committee of four ladies (Mary Davis, Carrie Prescott, Mrs. H. 
1'. Hemenway and Julia Warden) were chosen to draw up a constitution to 
be presented at a meeting to be held on the following Monday evening, 
November 13. 

The first regular meeting was held with Miss Waters, and a constitu- 
tion for the society was presented and adopted. 

The following list of officers was presented and elected : Miss Lizzie 
A. Waters, president; Mrs. Geo. H. Crosby, vice-president; Mrs. Chas. H. 
Buswell, secretary: Miss Helen C. Edgerly, assistant secretary; Mrs. 
Albert E. Hughes, treasurer. Directresses: Mrs. Chas. Williams, Jr., Mrs. 
H. P. Hemenway, Mrs. Chas. Crane, Mrs. John E. Cole, Mrs. Wethern, 
Mrs. P. Ford, Jr., Mrs. David Crane, Misses Kate Fletcher, Anna M. 
Knight, S. Fannie Gerry, Emily Knowles, Nellie Parker, Carrie Prescott, 
P>elle Dalton, Ella Runey, Emma Brown, Susie Davis. The society was 
named in courtesy to Mrs. Waters and daughter, who were officers in the 
Samaritan Society of Boston at the time of their removal to Somerville, and 
members until the society became the North End Dispensary. 

When the Samaritan Society was organized, it was the only social and 
charitable society in the town, if we may except those connected with the 
churches. The charity work extended to every part of the city, and the 
Christmas donations are something pleasant to be remembered, for baskets 
of stores, and warm clothing, contributed by members and friends, found 
their way each year to scores of families whose appreciation of them made 
us feel that it was "more blessed to give than to receive." The form of 
meetings was sewing until nine o'clock p.m., when the work was gathered 
up, and the incoming of the gentlemen added much to the pleasure of the 
evening. Music, singing and games followed with now and then a "Vir- 
ginia Reel." The meetings were attended by over one hundred members. 



3 5''' somi:r\'/li.i:, iwsr .wn i ri:se\i. 

the lar<jest enrolled iiieiiibership for anyone year being 124. If we look 
about now, we find that organized societies have become legion, but none 
among them all have yet filled the place of this association, for notwith- 
standing its depleted membership, and more limited resources, it has gone 
steadily on with the humane work. 

The members of this society both past and present have reason to feel 
gratified with the report of these many years, 'i'he society has received 
during this period, from entertainments in the form of fairs, suppers, con- 
certs and lectures, the sum of S4.5 12.61. ihe yearly assessments have 
amounted to S76,s.24, and the interest on deposits of money S192, making a 
total of 55. 472. 85. 

The society received a '• iietiuest" frcjiii .Mrs. (Ico. II. Crosby, Novenv 
ber 2S. 1S85, increasing the sum to <5.672.S5. Mrs. Crosby was an earnest 
and interested officer from the formation of tiie society until called to her 
"higher " work. Many oilier gifts received were at once sent to families 
for whom they were intended. 

There has been expended during these years, for groceries, boots and 
shoes, wood and coal, rents, funeral expenses, and material for clothing, the 
sum of 55,660.85, leaving a balance in the treasury of 512. For the amount 
e.xpended there have been given 2.1 17 orders for poor and need\ families 
to the number of over three hundred, and this does not include the hun- 
dreds of garments which have found their way into these many homes, con- 
tributed from all parts of the city, while the influence of this work has gone 
out far and wide to arouse assistance from other sources. 

It has been through the work and experiences of this society that the 
needs of a children's home and day nurseries were seen to be a necessitv, 
and it is hoped that the future will see these charities well established, and 
handsomely supported. 

Miss Waters remained president three years, Mrs. P. Ford, Jr., suc- 
ceeding in 1874, one year: Mrs. James X. Clark, two years, 1875, '876; Mrs. 
George H. Crosby, two years, 1877, 1878; Mrs. I.. !',. Wilson, two years, 
1879, 1880; .Mrs. S. C. Lund, one year, 1881 ; .Mrs. j. C. Thomas, two years, 
1882, 1883; .Mrs. II. M. Morse, 1884; Mrs. L. Timson, two years, 1885, 
1886, when Miss Waters was again chosen to fill the office, and has re- 
tained it until the present year, with the following officers : vice-president, 
Mrs. H. M. P.urgess: secretary. Miss S. L. Chandler: treasurer. Mrs. |. ( '. 
Thomas: wardrobe keeper, Mrs. F. .\. (loodale. Directresses: .Mrs. 11. 
W. TJurgess, Mrs. T!. P. Palmer, Mrs. j. H. Weston, .Mrs. L. Powker, .Mrs. 
F. A. Coodale. .Mrs. 1. II. Wiley, Mrs. P. i\. Chaffee, -Mrs. F. L. Davis, 
-Mrs. I). W^ Sanborn, .Mrs. j. II. Litchfield, Miss A. U. Knight, Mrs. F. 
( Jerlrucle Porter. 




Elizabeth A. Waters. 




Albert H. Higiies. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST AXD PRESEXT. 359 



SOMERVILLE DAY NURSERY. 

The existence of this nursery is due to the desire of the Helen Hunt 
Circle of King's Daughters to establish in Somerville a charity which should 
protect children left uncared for while their mothers are at work. 

For this object they contributed nearly one hundred dollars, and in 
March, 1S93, a number of ladies from different parts of the city met at the 
house of Mrs. Niles, and organized and, in the following June, opened the 
nursery with a matron, housekeeper, and five children. 

At present the children average from seventeen to twenty-live daily, the 
number at times rising to thirty. This increase has necessitated the em- 
ployment of an assistant. The ages of the children vary from seven months 

to ten years. 

This institution is non-sectarian, and is supported by voluntary sub- 
scriptions of one dollar or more annually, and by donations of wood, coal 
and provisions. The cost of caring for a child per day is twenty-five cents, 
of which the mother is required to pay five cents. 

The homes of the children are often visited by the matron, and every 
case carefully investigated. Besides the legitimate work of the nursery, aid 
is rendered in other cases when necessary, employment by the day found 
for mothers, and positions secured for young girls. 

The house is open from 7 a. m. to 5 f. m. every day, excepting Sundays 
and holidays. All applications for admission are made to the matron, Ellen 

E. Mason. 

Officers of the Day Nursery: president, Mrs. L. \'. Niles: vice-presi- 
dents, Mrs. G. W. Simpson, Mrs. A. H. tarvill : treasurer, Mrs. J. A. Clark : 
corresponding secretary, Mrs. C. S. Dewing; recording secretary, Miss 
Helen Tincker; auditor. Miss F. W. Kaan. Board of directors: Mrs. C. P. 
Battelle, Mrs. James Brown, Mrs. J. H. Butler, Mrs. A. H. Carvill, Mrs. 

E. J. Chilson, Mrs. J. A. Clark, Mrs. E. A. Conant, Mrs. H. P. Conant, 
Mrs. C. S. Dewing, Mrs. H. S. Farnham, Mrs. Edward Foote, Mrs. J. O. 
Hayden, Mrs. C. M. Howes, Mrs. A. E. Hughes, Mrs. S. E. Gilcrease, Miss 

F. W. Kaan, Mrs. L. \". Niles, Dr. E. M. Phillips, Mrs. J. L. Potter, Mrs. 
N. H. Reed,' Mrs. G. W. Simpson, Mrs. Arthur Smith, Mrs. F. M. Stodder, 
Mrs. I. E. Sylvester, Mrs. E. L. Tead, Miss Minnie Tead, Miss Helen 
Tincker, Mrs. W. E. Weld, Mrs. J. F. Wellington, Mrs. C. A. West, Mrs. 
E. B. West. 

The Day Nursery is located at 144 Washington street. 



^\\\M ^' '^^i'l^^'ev /^ 




No. 131), Department of Mass., 

G. A. R. 



SOMERl'ILLE. PAST AND PRESENT. 36 1 

WILLARl) C. KINSLEY POST G. A. R. 

I'KEl'AKI-I) 1!V A CO.MMITTEI-: OF TIIK I'OST. 

Post 139 G. A. R. was chartered August 16, 1870, and was mustered 
as a post October 20 of that year, with twenty-eight charter members, eight 
of whom, viz. : J. H. Dusseault, John Kennedy, Elkanah Crosby. Sanford 
Hanscom, C. H. Crane, W. H. Thomas, M. C. Parkhurst and J. W. Oliver, 
are still active members. 

In selecting the name of WiUard C. Kinsley for the post, the veterans 
of Somerville felt it a pleasant duty to perpetuate the memory of a soldier 
who is remembered by his old comrades as one of the bravest and most 
popular men who ever led a company. 

Mr. Kinsley first enlisted in April. iS6i,as a private in Capt. Brastow's 
company of the Fifth Regiment, and served with honor through the three 
months' campaign ; he then re-enlisted for three years and was commissioned 
as second lieutenant of Company E (Somerville Company) of the Thirty- 
ninth Regiment ; he soon received a merited promotion to the first lieu- 
tenancy and then to the captaincy, in which position he won and held 
the love and respect of his men to a degree such as few officers attain ; a 
perfect leader in the held, he was as one of their own number when off duty, 
and his kindness and care for the sick and wounded were like those of a 
brother. He led his men through many battles, and was slightly wounded 
in the head June 17, 1864. He kept with his company, however, until at 
almost the close of the war, on March 31, 1865, at CJravelly Run, Va., just 
prior to Lee's surrender, he fell mortally wounded and died on the following 
day. 

For the tirst few years of its organization the post grew rapidly and 
attained a membership of about two hundred ; it then gradually declined, 
as did nearly all posts of the G. A. R., until the year 1882, when, the work 
being taken up on partially new lines, the increase was again rapid until 
over three hundred names were enrolled, and the roster continues at about 
that number at the present time. 

The muster-rolls of the post during its twenty-six years of existence 
have contained the names of men engaged in almost all professions and 
business pursuits, many of whom have been honored by the political pref- 
erence of their fellow-citizens in State and city offices. In the list are 
included four ex-mayors, viz.: Brastow, Bruce, Cummings and Hodgkins, 
and many of the other members are filling positions of trust with credit to 
themselves in other lines of employment. The tenets of the order are 
Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty ; but although the fraternal ties and meet- 
ings of the veterans are of inestimable value and pleasure to themselves, and 
they have ever been ready by practice and by the teaching of the principles 
of loyalty to country and Hag to assist in promoting a healthy sentiment 
among the younger generation which shall tend to perpetuate our free and 
enlightened government, the chief aim and object of the order is charity. 



36j somi:r\ii.i.i:, past .i.\/> /•a'/:s/:\/: 

which is bestowed not only anioni;- its own iiRiiibers. but ani()n<; all who 
fought in the Civil War now living- in our midst, who, through disease or old 
age, have become incapacitated from gaining a livelihood: these together 
with the widows and orphan children of those who have passed away have 
been assisted, together with others who were needy and destitute. In the 
conscientious performance of this duty the post is recognized as a prime 
factor in charitable work in this city, having disbursed over 513,000 in 
cash, nearly two-thirds of which went to persons outside the membership of 
the post. 

Ihe organization has always assisted other charitable enterprises, not- 
ably in late years: during the hard times of the winter of 1S93-4 it made a 
donation of S200 to the Associated Charities of Somerville, and later its 
members assisted in the Hospital Fair, and were enabled to contribute about 
?225 to the fund for that institution. 

In its work the post has been aided very materially by its auxiliarv, 
the Woman's Relief Corps, the membership of which is composed of loyal 
ladies who are ever ready, as were those in the days of 1.S61-5, to do all in 
their power to aid the soldiers: it has also been greatly assisted by the 
generous patronage which has been given b\ the citizens of Somerville to 
all the enterprises it has gotten up for charitable purposes. 

The commanders of the post ha\e been: C. 1-". King. 1S70 i ; H. K. 
Hill, 1S-2: I. H. Dusseault, 1S73: T. J. IJutTum. 1S74; G. H. Hurroughs, 
1S73; W. W. Woodbury, 1876; W. K. Halladay, 1S77: G. I!. Clark,. iS7,S; 
I. H. Soule. 1S79 (died in office): Dennis Kelley, 1S79 (unexpired term): 
John Kennedy, iSSo: J.. M.Woods. iSSi ; Martin Hinney. iSS-: C. ¥. King, 
1S.S3-4: J. F. Davlin. 1X85: .M. 1). Jones, iSSf); Walter Winward, 1.SS7: 
John Kelley, iSSS: C. M. Colgate, 1.SS9 ; H. 15. Sellon, 1.S90; Henry Rich- 
ardson, 1S91 : A. C. Stacy, 1.S92; K. H. Gooding, 1S93: C. (). Pratt, 1S94: 
(J. H. Clapp, 1S95 : and G. M. Stevens, 1S96. The present place of meeting 
is in Grand Army Hall. ( iti/LMi Uiiilding. Gilnian sc|uare. 




Martin Binney 




jAMi;s F. Davlin. 



SOMERl'ILLE, EAST .hV/) rRJiSEN/'. 3^5 

WILLARl) v'. KIXSLKV KELIEF CORPS, 
r.v Makv K. Ki.i.iiii. 

That the loyal women of America realized their responsibilities during 
the Civil War, is a fact interwoven in almost all its history. 

On fields of battle, in the hospitals of the North and the South, in halls 
and churches and in the home they toiled for the Cnion cause and its brave 
volunteers. 

The highest principles of womanhood and of patriotism were exempli- 
fied by their efforts, and the statement that "there were heroines as well as 
heroes in that war," is verified on many pages of its records. 

When, soon after peace was declared, the (irand Army of the Republic 
organized to conduct a work of Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty, its princi- 
ples appealed again to the hearts of loyal women. They realized that, 
though the battlefields were silent, the suffering caused by the war remained. 

Societies of women were formed in many cities and towns to co-operate 
with posts of the Grand Army of the Republic in their beneficent work. 

One of the first of these societies to bear the name of a post was or- 
ganized in Somerville, March 17, 1S78, as Willard C. Kinsley Relief Corps. 

Much interest was manifested at the regular meetings which were held 
in Bow Street Hall, and successful entertainments enabled the corps to 
establish a relief fund of several hundred dollars. 

The members were also active in raising funds for the Soldiers' Home 
Bazaar held in Mechanics Building, Boston, in December, iSSi. 

A few days previous to the opening of the bazaar, the corps president 
received a check for $125 from Mr. Henry F. Spencer, on behalf of the 
trustees of the Columbus Tyler estate, it being the surplus (with interest) 
remaining in the Somerville war fund of which Mr. Tyler had charge. 
This amount and the receipts of the corps table gave Somerville the credit 
of being represented in the eftorts to establish a soldiers' home in Massa- 
chusetts. 

In May, i.S,S2, Willard C. Kinsley Corps reorganized on a broader basis 
and became a branch of the TJepartment of Massachusetts Woman's Relief 
Corps, a State organization which was formed in Fitchburg in 1S79. Mrs. 
E. Florence Barker, department president, and Mrs. Sarah E. Fuller, de- 
partment secretary at that time, conducted the institution which was held 
in Bow Street Hall. They installed the officers in the evening, when promi- 
nent guests were present representing the clergy and city officials of 
Somerville, and friends from other sections of the State. 

Willard C. Kinsley Post attended the exercises in a body. 

The corps was entered upon the roster at department headquarters as 
No. 21, there having been twenty corps previously organized under the 
direction of the Department of Massachusetts W. R. C. 

There were thirty-six charter members, and they (and all who have sub- 




Mary E. Elliot. 



S0ME/U7LLE, /'AST JND J'RKSEA'T. 367 

sequently taken the obligation) have pledged support to the following ob- 
jects, which form a part of the rules and regulations of the order : — 

"To specially aid and assist the (hand Army of the Republic, and to 
perpetuate the memory of the heroic dead. 

"To assist such Tnion veterans as need our help and protection, and to 
extend needful aid to their widows and orphans. 

" To find them homes and employment, and assure them of sympathy 
and friends. 

" To cherish and emulate the deeds of our army nurses and of all loyal 
women who rendered loving service to our country in her hour of peril. 

" To maintain true allegiance to the L^nited States of America ; to in- 
culcate lessons of patriotism and love of country among our children and in 
the communities in which we live ; and to encourage the spread of universal 
liberty and equal rights to all." 

That Corps 21 has been loyal to these objects is fully shown by its rec- 
ords. Over a thousand dollars have been expended in relief since 1SS2, but 
this does not represent the full value of its work in this direction. The in- 
vestigation of numerous cases, the visits to the sick, and poor but worthy 
claimants upon our gratitude, the distribution of food and clothing, and 
other duties have been promptly performed by the relief committee that 
has served from year to year with great eilciency. 

Corps 21 has aided Post 139 in two large fairs, and has co-operated in 
its plans for the proper observance of Memorial Day. 

The two bodies have each a conference committee, " to confer concern- 
ing matters of mutual interest, in order to strengthen the relations and per- 
fect the work for which these organizations are mutually pledged." 

Union gatherings are occasionally held, and the corps has often wel- 
comed the comrades at anniversaries, receptions, suppers and other 
gatherings, and the post has extended the same courtesy to its auxiliary. 
The two organizations have worked together in harmony, each having a re- 
gard for the other's interests. 

At the tenth anniversary of the corps, in May. iSc)2, a beautiful silk 
banner was presented as a testimonial by the post. A Bible, a flag and 
guidon are among the gifts received by the post from its auxiliary corps. 
At the silver anniversary of the post, in October, 1S95, a large portrait of 
one of its honored members— Mayor William H. Hodgkins — was pre- 
sented by the corps, the members of which were present as guests. 

During the past few years the subject of patriotic teaching ni the public 
schools has been a special feature of relief corps work throughout the 
country. Inilly realiznig the importance of this movement. Corps 21 voted 
to petition the school board of Somerville to introduce a "salute to the 
flag " into the public schools. With a view of awakening a deeper interest 
in the subject, a "flag meeting "was held in the (Old) Unitarian Church on 
Highland avenue, on the evening of December 16, 1.S94. 

A large and enthusiastic audience enjoyed the program presented. 
Pupils from the Pope and Forster schools exemplified the flag salutes, and 



36S soMiiNi/i.i.i:, r.isr .\\n i'Ni:si:xr. 

addresses were made hy Mayor William II. llodgkins, several i ler.<,fymen 
of the city, members of the school committee, department ofificers W . k. C, 
and others. Patriotic singing added interest to the exercises. When the 
jietition was formally presented to the school board, it was favorably con- 
sidered. 

In response to the appeal of the trustees of the .Somerville Hospital, for 
the fair held in the (Old) L'nitarian Church, the corps furnished a table, 
and visits to the hospital are often made by our members. 

.\side from the local work undertaken. Corps 21 has manifested an in- 
terest in the Soldiers' Home on Powderhorn Hill in Chelsea. Assistance 
was rendered the soldiers' home carnival held in .Mechanics Buildinj^-, 
Hoston, in 1SS5, and the military fair held in Music Hall, Boston, in 1S92. 

.\n entertainment is annually given at the home and appreciated by the 
veterans, as are also the delicacies distributed on these visits. Several 
contributions have been given the home at various times. A pleasing inci- 
dent of the visit this year (1S96) was the gift of plants to the inmates, that 
they might have a flower garden of their own. 

The department relief fund for special cases reported at headcjuarters 
and the memorial fund for the care of soldiers' widows and army nurses 
have received liberal contributions from Corps 21. .\11 other appeals from 
department headquarters for special objects have met with a prompt re- 
sponse, and on each Memorial Day the corps sends a tribute for the un- 
known graves in the national cemeteries of the South. 

A copy of the History of the Department of Massachusetts W. R. C. 
— a bound volume of nearly four hundred pages — has recently been given 
to the public library of Somerville. Regular meetings are held twice a 
month in Grand .Vrmy Hall, Oilman square, and are largely attended. The 
present membership is one hundred and sixty-one. A list of those who have 
served as presidents is given, viz. : Miss Mary K. Elliot, Mrs. Harriet A. 
Ralph, Mrs. .\bbie J. Bean. .Mrs. Ann C. Souther, Mrs. Rose .\. Knapp, 
Mrs. Eveline P. Robinson, .Mrs. Helen I*". Johnson, Mrs. Harriet A. (Hiam- 
berlin, Mrs. Helen M. McCully, Mrs. Fannie M. Jones, Mrs. Lydia P. 
Hall, Mrs. Kate .\. Stacy. 

There are at the present time one hundred and seventy-two corps in 
Massachusetts with a membership of fourteen thousand, and about two hun- 
dred thousand dollars have been expended for relief in this State alone. 

Willard C. Kinsley Corps has an honored place on this roll, and is justly 
entitled to recognition as one of the pioneer corps (.A the order. 

Since its organization this auxiliary to the (Jrand .\rmy of the Republic 
has been formed in forty-four States and Territories, and numbers one hun- 
dred and thirty thousand j^atriotic women. 

Over a million dollars have been expended for relief, a national home 
for soldiers" widows and army nurses established, and also State homes 
maintained, memorials erected in honor of martyred heroes. Hags placed in 
the public schools, and an educational work conducted in behalf of 
patriotism that will have a permanent inliuence upon this generation. 




James S. Sanborn. 




CQ 



O 

CO 

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< 

CO 
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SOMKRl'ILLK, J'. 1ST .LVD /'RES/iNT. 



WOMAN'S CHRISTIAN TEMPERANCE UNION. 

The West Somerville Woman's Christian Temperance Union was or- 
ganized in March, 1879, by Mrs. L. B. P^arrett, then State secretary of the 
Massachusetts W.C.T.l-. The first president was Mrs. Person Davis, and 
the first secretary Mrs. Harriet A. Chamberlin. There were nine charter 
members. The union, whicli now consists of sixtA-one members, has done, 
in connection with the temperance work, much of a philanthropic nature. 
It has also done more than any other organization toward making Somer- 
ville a no-license city. The present officers are : Mrs. A. S. C. Hill, presi- 
dent ; and Mrs. S. Addie Johnson, secretary. The fountain at Union square 
was erected as a memorial to Mrs. Barrett, by the several unions of Somer- 
ville. 



SOMERVILLE FIREMAN'S RELIEF ASSOCIATION. 

By James R. Hopkins. 

Was organized May 9, 1S70, and incorporated, March 11, iS(^o. Its 
first ofticers were: chief engineer, David A. Sanborn, president; Theodore 
D. Dennett, vice-president; e,x-chief engineer Robert A. Vinal, secretary 
and treasurer. It distributes relief to its members (as follows) : any mem- 
ber who is injured going to, working at, or returning from a fire, may receive 
$1.50 a day for a term not exceeding fifty clays. In case of the death of 
a member, $100 is paid to the legal representative for funeral expenses. 

Its resources are the annual dues of members (#1.00 each), and the in- 
come of entertainments, four having been given during its existence. The 
association also published a book containing a histor\' of the department, 
from which (through the courtesy of advertisers) it received an addition to 
its funds. 

The association's business has always been honestly and efficiently 
managed. It was fortunate in having for one of its founders Captain 
Robert A. \'inal: he was for seventeen years its treasurer; by his acts of 
charity towards the poor and the unfortunate, by his words of counsel, and 
in his upright life, he was an example to the association which it will follow 
as long as it exists. 

The oificers of the association are : James R. Hopkins, president; Ber- 
nard W. Lawrence, vice-president; David A. Sanborn, treasurer; John E. 
Hill, clerk. Directors: Samuel H. Stevens, Thomas H. Daley, Frank W. 
Ring, Irving C. Jackson, Edward F. I'refren, Edward W. Ring, Benj. W. 
Daley, Frank L. Draper, Nathaniel C. Barker. 

Dr. Thomas M. Durell is the physician and examining surgeon of the 
association, having held that position since its incorporation ; his services 
have always been given gratuitously to its members. 



372 SOMI-.RllLI.i:, PAST .IXD /'A'/.'S/.X'/: 

Sl)MKR\ n>LK \()l NG -MKN'S CllRlSllAN ASSUClAllUX. 

In the autumn of 1S67, as a result of one of tlie great association con- 
ventions, several citizens of Sonierville who had attended became alive to 
the need of a work for young men in the then rapidly growing town, and a 
meeting in the interest of such a work was held in the then I'erkins-street 
Baptist Church, December 7, at which Hon. \V. H. liodgkins was elected 
l)resident, and Hiram L. Mackechnie secretary of the newly formed or- 
ganization. 

F'or twenty years a general evangelistic work among all classes and for 
both se.xes was carried on, but in the summer of 1S.S7 a reorganization of 
the association took place, and "definite work for and by young men" 
began. 

K. I*. Higgins was elected president; W'm. M. Armstrong, vice-presi- 
dent; V. v.. liodgkins, treasurer: and H. K. Valentine, secretary. A suite 
of rooms was fitted up in Masonic lilock, I'nion scjuare, and A. M. Wight 
of Springfield was called as first general secretary. Mr. Wight filled the 
position of general secretary four years, during which time work for boys 
was begun, a woman's auxiliary was formed, a building fund was begun, 
and the general lines of work w-ere vigorously prosecuted. The woman's 
auxiliary held a very successful fair during Mr. Wight's term of office, from 
the proceeds of which a lot of land was purchased at the corner of liow 
street and Somerville avenue, which has since been sold, and the fund is 
now held in trust for a lot. 

Mr. Higgins, as president, was succeeded, in iSSS, by Mr. W m. M. Arm- 
strong, and he in 1890, b} Mr. Wm. B. Savage. 

In May, 1891, the association was incorporated under the general laws 
of .Massachusetts. Mr. Wight resigned his office in June, 1891, after four 
years of eminently successful work, and was succeeded by Mr. (leo. M. 
Cowles of Springfield, who after one year of labor resigned to enter the 
foreign mission field. 

Mr. W. C. Rollins of Lynn was acting general secretary from Octo- 
ber, 1S92, to January, 1893, when W. H. Symonds, the present secretary, 
began his labors. 

Xew rooms were fitted up in Litchfield lilock at a cost of $2,000, and in 
October, 1893, when H. .M. Moore was elected president, a physical de- 
partment was added at an expense of $2,200. The membership now num- 
bers 806, and all lines of modern association work are carried on. 

.A fund of .510,000 in cash or pledges has been secured toward a new 
building, which is our great need at the present time. I'he present ofiicers 
are: Geo. V. Clarridge, president; F. M. Kilmer, vice-president; V. K. 
Hodgkins, treasurer; W. B. Clark, clerk : W. 11. Symonds, general secre- 
tary; W. J. Bursaw. physical director. 




George F. Clarridge. 




JuiiN Herbert. 




William M. Armstrong. 




Frank H. Hodgkins. 



MASONIC. 



SOMKRVILLK ROYAL ARCH CHAPIER. 

In [une and October of the year 1S70 the project of forming a chapter 
was discussed in two informal meetings held by a few Royal Arch Masons 
in the anteroom of John Abbot lodge, and it was decided to take the 
necessary steps thereto. The officers were selected and the name of 
" Somerville Royal Arch Chapter '" was adopted. 

A dispensation having been received from the M. K. (irand High Priest, 
a chapter of Royal Arch Masons in Somerville was opened on the 27th day 
of December, 1870, with M. E. Companion Daniel K. Chase, high priest; 
and Companions Thomas H. Lord, king: Charles S. Lincoln, scribe; 
Horace Haskins, treasurer; Aaron Sargent, secretary; Rev. George \V. 
Durell, chaplain ; Charles H. Delano, captain of the host; William W. Dow, 
P. S. ; George A. Pratt, Royal Arch captain; Emery H. Monroe, M. of the 
Third V. ; Robert Hollingsworth, M. of the Second V. ; Isaac B. Kendall, 
M. of the Eirst V. ; John W. Vinal and Albro R. Jenness, stewards ; Thomas 
Cunningham, tiler ; and twelve Companions, in addition, as members, 
making a total membership of twenty-seven. 

The chapter was formally constituted under its charter, October 10, 
i87i,by Grand High Priest Chickering and suite; and the officers installed 
were M. E. Companion Thomas H. Lord, high priest; and Companions 
Charles S. Lincoln, king; Charles E. King, scribe; Horace Haskins. 
treasurer; Aaron Sargent, secretary; Rev. George W. Durell, chaplain; 
William W. Dow, captain of the host; Isaac B. Kendall, P. S. ; George A. 
Pratt, R. A. captain ; Albro R. Jenness, M. of the Third V. ; John W. Vinal, 
M. of the Second V. ; George L. Baxter, M. of the First V. ; Charles G. 
Pope and Horace E. Boynton. stewards; and Thomas Cunningham, tiler. 
The ceremonies were public, the presence of ladies giving additional in- 
terest to the occasion. 

Succeeding M. E. Companion Lord, the high priests have been M. E. 
Companions Charles E. King, Rudolph Kramer, George H. Allen, Thomas 
H. Lord again, Samuel E. Holt, Quincy E. Dickerman, Erank H. Mead, 
Albion Libby, James Kelly, Orrin C. Hubbard, Clarence H. Willey and 
Clarence W. Tarbell, the present high priest being Samuel Dudley Kelley. 
The chapter had thirty-four charter members, and has now a membership 
of 302 Companions. The convocations were held in the old John Abbot 
lodge room. Union square, before coming to the new Masonic apartments. 
Winter Hill. 

377 



378 SOMERill.Li:, PAST AXP rRI.SEXT. 



OKIF.N r (OrXCML r. axd s. m. 

l;^ Aako.n Saki.km. 

'roward tht- close of the year iS8S the project of instituting;- a council 
of Royal and Select Masters was advanced. The name — Orient Council — 
was suggested by Companion A. Eugene Sargent. 'I'he fathers of the Coun- 
cil were Companions Aaron Sargent and John S. Hayes: and with a mem- 
bership of twenty, and b\ authority of a dispensation from the M. 1. C. 
Master, a council was opened on the 7th day of I'ebruary. 1.SS9, with Com- 
panions John S. Hayes, 1. 1. Master; Joseph \\ . Hill, deputy master: 
Isaac (j. Curtis, principal conductor of the work; Isaac R. Kendall, 
treasurer; Aaron Sargent, recorder; Charles .\. Skinner, chaplain; George 
S. Flanders, master of ceremonies; (ialen M. 15owditch, captain of the 
guard; Charles K. Moore, conductor of the council; Robert R. Perry, 
steward; Daniel C. Stillscn. sentinel; and David Cutter, musical director 
and organist. 

The council received its charter, and was formally constituted by M. 1. 
(i. Master Daniel W. Jones, and ofiicers of the Crand Council on the 16th 
of January, 1S90. The first otiticers under the charter were : Companions 
Joseph \V. Hill, T. 1. Master; (ialen M. liowditch. Deputy Master; William 
H. Cushman, Principal Conductor of the Work ; Isaac B. Kendall, 'I'reas- 
urer ; A. F.ugene Sargent, recorder; Charles A. Skinner, chaplain; 
Clarence H. Willey, master of ceremonies; George S. Flanders, captain 
of the guard; Edward T. C. Eddy, conductor of the council; John E. 
Marden, sentinel; and David Cutter, musical director and organist. The 
succeeding masters have been; T. I. Companions Galen M. liowditch, 
William H. Cushman and Edward T. C. P>ddy. The charter membership 
was ninety-five companions. The council has conferred the degrees on 
201 companions, and has now a membership of 206. 



JOHN APPOT LOIXJE. 

The first lodge of Free and Accepted .Masons in Somerville was opened 
under a dispensation, October 23, 1.S57, with the following organization; 
master, Francis L. Raymond ; senior warden, Joel !•". Thayer ; junior warden, 
James R. P>ugbee ; treasurer, Thomas J. Leland; secretary, Charles E. (Oil- 
man; chaplain, James M. Shute ; marshal, (ieorge O. Prastow ; senior 
deacon, Thomas H. Lord; junior deacon, Alexander B. Cleary; senior 
steward, Gardner T. Pin.L;-; junior steward. Reuben E. Demmon ; tiler. 
Enoch Robinson. 

The lodge received its charter and was formall\ constituted September 
14, 1S5S, the ofiicers installed being as follows: master, John K. Hall • 
senior warden, Joel F. 'I'hayer ; junior warden. James R. Pugbee ; treasurer, 
Thomas J. Leland; secretary. Charles E. (Jilman ; chaplain. James M. 
Shute: marshal, Rollin W. Keyes ; senior deacon, Thomas H. Lord: 




Daniel E. Chase. 




Orrin C. Hubbard. 




Frank W. Kaan. 




William H. W'oodberry. 



S0MER17LLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 3^3 

junior deacon, Alexander B. Cleary ; senior steward, Philip R. Ridgway ; 
junior steward, William E. Robinson; tiler, C'aleb Bucknani. 

The charter members numbered nineteen brothers. For about two 
years they met in a small attic lodge-room over L'nion Hall, in a wooden 
building at the corner of Oak and Milk streets, now known as Beach street 
and Somerville avenue. Then for eight or nine years they met on the 
second tioor of the same building. 

March iS, i,s6.j, the lodge moved to l'nion Hall building, in Union 
square, and October 4, 1888, to the Stickney building, in Oilman square. 

The masters since John K. Hall have been in their order : James R. 
Ikigbee, Thomas H. Lord, Philip R. Ridgway, William E. Robinson, Henry 
F Woods, Charles H. Delano, Thomas H. Lord (again), Selwyn Z. Bow- 
man Frank S. Hartshorn, Charles H. Taylor, George H. Allen, Charles J. 
Richardson, Robert Laycock, John B. Viall, T. Oilman Smith, Edward T. 
Flanagan, Charles A. Cushman, Thomas M. Durell, Frank W. Kaan, Hor- 
ace L. Eaton and Frank W. Mead. 

The number of members, September i, 1896, was 379. the list of officers 
for 1896-7 being as follows :-W. M., Frank W. Mead: S. W., Elmer E. 
Cousens ; J. W., Orrin C. Hubbard; treasurer, Miah O. Kenny ; secretary, 
Thomas Miller; chaplain. Rev. Edward P. Lee; marshal, Horace M. Par- 
sons • S. D., Nathaniel W. LiUie ; J. D., John H. MacAlman ; S. S., Frederic 
E. Wood; J. S., J. A. F. Trueman; L S., Alfred M. Sibley; tiler, John E. 
Marden ; organist, Oeorge Swift. 



SOLEV LODOE. 

By WM. II. WOODBKRRV. 

Soley Lodge A. F. .^ A. M. was instituted April 2, 1879, the first 
meetincr being held in I'.roadway Hall, East Somerville, under dispensation. 

Th^e formal constitution by M. W. Orand Master Chas. A. Welsh and 
the Grand Lodge, occurred April 9, 18S0, in Franklin Hall, corner of 15road- 
way and Franklin street. 

The first officers, being the same as those acting under dispensation, 
were • Wor. Bro. Horace P. Hemenway, W. M. ; Wor. 15ro. Henry F. Woods, 
T. W. ; Wor. Bro. |ohn \'iall. J. W. ; and Bros. John F. Cole, treasurer; 
\aron' Sargent, secretary; Rev. Edwin J. Gerry, chaplain ; Geo. W. Perkins, 
marshal; J. Foster Clark, S. D. ; Chas. G. Pope, J. D.; L. M. Haskins, S. 
S. ; Chas." H. Crane, J. S. ; Wm. F. Sanborn, L S. ; Geo. H. Meader, organ- 
ist • and Chas. C. Folsom, tiler. 

Its name is a tribute to the worth and memory of John Soley. a native 
and resident of Charlestown, Mass., well loved by her citizens and many 
times honored in her government. He was prominent m Masonry early in 
the present century, having filled many offices in the Grand Lodge. He was 
Or Recording Secretary from 181 1 to 181S inclusive, and M.W. Or. Master 
in 18-6-27-28. He loved the order, and in its service spent a large part of 




A.MASA E. SOUTHWORTII. 



SOMERl'II.LE, PAST .LVD PRESENT. 385 

his long and useful life which closed in honor April 6, 1851. The W. Mas- 
ters of Soley Lodge since W. M. Hemenway have been W'or. Bros. John 
Mall, J. Foster Clark, C'has. H. ( "rane, John F. Cole, Amasa ¥.. Southworth, 
fas. ¥. FJeard, Geo. W. Perkins, J. Walter Sanborn and Wm. H. Woodberry. 
On the 4th of October, 1SS8, the new Masonic apartments in the 
Stickney Building in Oilman square were dedicated by M. W. Or. Master 
Henry Endicott and the Grand Lodge, and since then they have been the 
Masonic home of all the Masonic societies of Somerville. Recognizing not 
only the fraternal, but also the social obligations of its institution, its growth 
from the beginning has been strong and healthy, and it enjoys the allegiance 
and faithful support of many of Somerville's best and most highly esteemed 
citizens. The charter membership of the lodge was 46, the present list 
numbers 379, with the following line of oiftcers : W. M., Wm. H. Woodberry ; 
S. W., Albion H. Libbey ; J. W., Herbert L. Clark; treasurer, Edwin S. 
Conant : secretary, R. T. chamberlin ; chaplain, Chas. A. Skinner; mar- 
shal, B. Frank Wild; S. I)., Chas. S. Soule ; J. I)., Fl W. Southworth; S. S., 
F.ugene C. Leonard; J. S., Jos. H. Murphy; L S., Jos. Robbins; organist, 
H. F. Plaisted; tiler, John Harden. 



INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS. 



SOMERVILLE ENCAMPMENT. 

SoMKRViLLE ENCAMPMENT No. 4S was instituted in odd l*'ellows' Hall, 
Union square, April 7, 1S73, with 21 charter members. Its first officers 
were: C. P., Geo. Stephens; H. P., IJaniel FL Chase; S. W., Irwin M. Ben- 
nett; scribe, Geo. H. Allen; treasurer, Hiram D. Smith; J. W., Crawford 
F. Brown. This encampment has always been fortunate in having an 
efficient corps of officers, and its high standard of Patriarchal Odd Fellow- 
ship has always been maintained. 

It has a membership of 173, composed of brothers from 30 difterent 
lodges. 

Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday evenings of each 
month at 8 p. ,m. 

WINTER HILL ENCAMPMENT. 

Winter Hill Encampment No. 76 was instituted March 17, 1S92, by 
Chas. A. Mayo, G. P., assisted by a full staff of the Grand Encampment of 
the State of Massachusetts. 

The charter members are : I). W. Desmond, P. C. P., Frank P. Tucker, 
P. C. P., W. H. Cooper, P. C. P., Austin S. Esty, P. C. P., Fred E. Cheney, 



I- 





Odd Fellows' Building, Broadway and Marshall Street. 



0^ 




W 


^^ 




1 


-'I^SBL. ^^' 


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w 


. ^^jdMJ^^r" .*Jjv 







William H. Ralph. 




George h. Rijss. 



S0M/-KJ7LLE, PAST .LVB PRESEXT. 389 

J. Leland Norcross, William Sanby, P. C. P., C. H. Miles, Elisha G. Wood- 
ward, Alvah Cloutman, P. ('. P., Geo. H. Russ, William Welsh, Lawrence 
P. Land, Philemon D. Warren, Geo. W. Leavitt, Jr., William J. Emerson, 
Abbott L. Knowles, Nathan A. Fitch, Geo. H. Harlow, Chas. E. Gerrish! 
P. C. P., Frederick I). Chase, Joseph Scoboria, Robert Shannon, P. C. P.,' 
William F. Roberts. 

The first ofiicers that filled the chair of Winter Hill Encampment were : 
Daniel W. Desmond, G. P. ; Frank P. Tucker, H. P. ; William H. Gooper^ 
S. W. ; Austin S. Este}-, scribe; Fred E. Cheney, financial scribe; ]. 
Leland Norcross, treasurer; William Sanby, J. W. : Geo. H. Russ, guide ; 
Elisha G. Woodward, ist W. ; Nathan A. Fitch, 2d W. ;] Geo. H. Harlow,' 
3d W. ; Geo. W. Leavitt, Jr., 4th W. ; Robert Shannon, L S. ; Lawrence P.' 
Land, ( ). S. ; Wm. F. Roberts, ist G. of T. ; Wm. Welsh, 2d G. of T. 

The patriarchs who have passed through the chair of the Encampment 
as C. P. are: D. W. Desmond, \\ C. P., Wm. H. Cooper, P. C. P., Uilliam 
Sanby, P. C. P., Geo. H. Russ, Thos. H. liryant, Enoch M. Smith, Geo. F. 
Sargent. Salvatore La Bua, Jr., is the present C. P. 

The amount of money paid as sick benefits since the institution of the 
Encampment is : our own members, ^254. 50 ; non-members, $99. 

The deceased members are Alvah Cloutman, William H Cooper P C 
P., and J. W. PJailey. 

Total membership, January i, 1896, 109 members. 

The regular meetings of the Encampment are the first and third 
Thursdays of the month. 

CALEB RAND LODGE. 

^ Caleb Rand L'jr);;E No. 197, L ().(). F., was instituted in West Som- 
erville. May 29, iSSS, with the following charter members : Alonzo E. Bailey, 
George B. Barstow, Frank R. Starkey, Oliver H. Perry, Hiram O. Chapin,' 
Samuel H. Wilkins, George L. Marshall, Alfonso Clements, Fred L. Coatesi 
Albion P. Huntress, Franklin P. l^pham, George W. Maynard, Charles 
Warner and James Gillen. The name chosen was that of Past Grand 
Master Caleb Rand, a member of ( )live Branch Lodge of Charlestown, one 
of the noblest of Odd Fellows, and one whose memory we cherish and 
revere. After being duly instituted, Alonzo E. Bailey \vas elected first 
Noble Grand, and Geo. B. Barstow as \'ice-Grand, and the officers being 
mstalled, 1 10 applicants were duly initiated. 

Mt. Sinai Lodge of North Cambridge, Paul Revere Lodge of Somer- 
ville, and Bethel Lodge of Arlington assisted in advancing the candidates 
through the several degrees to full membership. Starting under such 
favorable circumstances, the lodge has continued to increase in member- 
ship until at the present time it numbers 210 scarlet degree members. 

In the summer of 1892 the lodge-room and paraphernalia were de- 
stroyed by fire, and being without a home, the lodge accepted the kind 
offer of Oasis Lodge of Union square, of the use of their apartments, where 



390 SO.]/KA'l7UJ:, J'. 1ST .LVD /'A'/:S/:X/\ 

it continued to meet until its present quarters were fitted up. ( )n occupying 
its new lodge-room a fresh interest was awakened, which has been steadily 
increasing, until at the present time there is no lodge in Massachusetts that is 
better or more favorably known, both for the magnificence of its degree work 
and also for the care and attention which it gives to the sick. Since the 
institution of Caleb Rand Lodge it has lost by death twelve of its number, 
two of whom were charter members and both Past Orands. The following " 
is a list of the Past CJrands of the lodge: J. H. (iillen, Alonzo E. P.ailey, 
(;eo. H. Barstow, Samuel H. Wilkins. Frank K. Studley. Fred L. Coates, 
Chas. A. G. Winther, Geo. L. Marshall, Joseph I). \ oung, (Jeo. T. Rand, 
Henry C. Fay, Fred R. Stockwell, Harry .\. True. ( )ramel P. Walker. 
Flnier j. Rhoades, Frank W. Richardson and X. W. Flwell by card. 

The present elective officers of the lodge are : Geo. R. Libby, Xoble 
(irand; Fred .\. White. \ice-Grand ; Walter H. Mitchell, secretary ; Frank 
A. Hobart, permanent secretary; Fred R. Stockwell, P. G., treasurer. 

Lodge meetings are held every Tuesday evening in Fraternity Hall, 
West Somerville: first Tuesday in the month, initiatory degree: second 
Tuesday in the month, ist degree; third Tuesday in the month, 2d degree: 
fourth Tuesday in the month. 3d degree. 

OASIS LODCjE. 

O.Asis LoDCK No. 146 was instituted September 17, 1868, in the old 
Masonic apartments at the corner of Milk street (now Somerville avenue) 
and Beach street, with thirty charter members. The first officers were : 
Xoble Grand. Thomas B. Wilson: Vice-Grand, David A. Sanborn, Jr. ; sec- 
retary, George H. Ireland : treasurer, Chas. H. Flkins. Ihe name " Oasis " 
was selected by the secretary. 

The lodge soon outgrew its small c|uarters. and in 1872 removed to 
Odd Fellows Hall, over Hotel Warren, Inion square, where it remained 
until the completion, in 1891, of its present home in the Stone Building, 
which was specially arranged, under the supervision of the trustees of the 
lodge. From the time of its organization, Oasis Lodge has believed that 
the care of the sick was the fundamental principle of ( )dd Fellowship, and 
ever acting upon that principle it has gained a reputation second to none 
in this jurisdiction. 

Although the lodge has always been financially successful, yet its funds 
have been carefully reserved for their intended purpose — relief. It has 
e.xpended over .S3o,ooo for benefits, and has invested funds of about 510,000. 
The present membership is 321. and the sick benefits are 56 per week. 
Meetings are held on Tluirsday evenings at 8 v. m. 

PAIT. RFN'FRF l.( )1)(;F. 

Pali. Revkrk Lodck No. 184 was instituted at Winter Hill, on the 
15th of March, 1878, with twenty-five charter m-mbers, the most of whom 
withdrew from Oasis Lodge .\o. 146. of Inion square. 




Andrew A. Lamont. 




Frank A. Noves. 



SOMER\-ILLE, PAST .LVD PRESEiVT. 393 

The lodge was installed in the hall on Broadway, known at that time 
as Brazillian Hall, where it remained until the year 1885; the increasino- 
membership and the general dissatisfaction with the location made the de- 
mand for a new hall imperative, and under the leadership of Brother Luke 
W. Farmer the ( )dd Fellows Building Association was formed, and the 
present home of the lodge erected at the corner of Broadway and Marshall 
street. 

The first elective officers of the lodge were : Rufus Winn, Xoble Grand : 
Nathaniel B. Gilkey, Vice-Grand; Austin S. Fsty, recording secretary; 
Edwin R. Perham. permanent Secretary ; and J. Leland Norcross, treasurer. 

The treasurer has the honor of having served every term since the 
lodge was instituted. 

The growth of the lodge has been healthy and uniform, numbering at 
the present time 293 brothers, and its influence is not only felt in the com- 
munity in which it is located, but throughout the State, as the present Cirand 
Master, Austin S. Esty, is one of its charter members. 

Since its institution the lodge has lost by death four Past (irands, one 
Noble Grand and twenty-seven Scarlet members; and has paid in sick 
benefits and donations over eleven thousand dollars. 

The following named brothers have presided over the deliberations of 
the lodge since its institution. Past Grands : Rufus Winn, N. B. Gilkey, 
A. S. Esty, E. G. Woodward, P. 1). \\\irren, J. L. Hutchinson, J. B. Mayhew' 
J. B. Westcott, E. T. Mayhew, W. J. Emerson, C. H. Sanborn, F. W. Ring, 
W. H. Reals. J. H. Woodbury, W. A. Sanborn, J. E. A. Mulliken, I). W. 
Desmond, A. Cloutman, L. W. Parker, L. G. Powers, J. T. Butler, N. B. 
Dana, (». F. Hincks, G. S. Noyes. G. H. Harlow, E. W. Farmer, G. F. 
Sargent, W. L. Glough, F. E. Gheney, H. K. Potter. E. B. (handler! W. R. 
Maxwell, A. A. Lamont, j. A. Glark, I. E. Rich, ] ). G. Theall, S. La Bua, 
Jr. 



REBEKAH LODGES, I. O. O. F. 



IVALOO AND RAMONA LODGES. 

ISv Mrs. IIakru:t A. Rali'II. 

While closely allied to the Independent ( )rder of ( )dd l^'ellows, the 
Rebekah Lodge has its own legitimate work to perform. Its mission 
is to alleviate suffering, and the members go forth quiet and unassum- 
ing on their labor of love, not letting the left hand know what the right 
hand doeth, ever ready to respond to the call of a sister or brother in dis- 
tress. 

Founded on the immutable corner-stone of Friendship, Love and Truth, 
their work broadens out into ministrations of love's helpfulness, positive as- 
surance of heart-felt sympathy and a willingness to render any act of kind- 



394 so.\n:R\njj:, past .\xd I'Ki-.si.xr. 

ness to lighten the many cares of life. I'inaneial assistance is not ,i;iven as 
charity in the sense in which we are wont to view tiie word, but in that 
grander, nobler spirit of loving our neighbors as ourselves, and the only 
recompense hoped for is the knowledge of suffering relieved and duty 
well done. 

While attending faithfully to the duties of visiting the sick and caring 
for tiie needy, the social feature is not lost sight of, and in visiting and en- 
tertaining sister lodges many pleasant hours are passed and strength gained 
for the work that lies before us. Somerville has three Rebekah Lody:es. 



I\.\L()') L()1)(;K. 

I'irst to enter the work in this city and among the earliest institutetl in 
the State was Ivaloo Lodge No. 7. The name was selected by llrother 
Daniel K. Chase, in compliment to his daughter. 

( )rganized at Samaritan Hall, Inion square, January 2S, 1S70, with a 
charter membership of forty-six. the lodge increased in members until the 
roll numbered two hundred and thirty-seven ; various causes, principally 
the formation of other lodges, have reduced the membership, which at the 
present time is one hundred and seventy. 

For seventeen years the office of Xoble (.rand was tilled as follows: 
Thomas 15. Wilson, 1S70 and 1.S71 ; Irvin M. Bennett, 1.S72 and 1873: 
Thomas Nicker}-, 1S73 and i<S79; Daniel K. Chase. 1S74. 1S76 and 1S77; 
Maria L. Doten, 1.S7.S; Charles A. Cushman, iKSo: frank A. Noyes, iSSi 
and 1SS5 ; Kzekiel S. Hell. 1882 and 1S.S3 ; Walter A. Sprague, 1SS4: Wil- 
liam H. Ralph, iSsr). As will be seen, up to the year 1SS7, but one lady 
had held the highest office. At this time the lodge was not gaining in mem- 
bership as rapidly as was desired, and the brothers thought that, as this was 
the ladies' branch of the order, it would be for its welfare if a sister would 
assume the office of Noble Grand, and Sister Nellie A. Curville was pre- 
vailed upon to undertake the work. She entered upon her duties in fanu- 
ary, 1SS7, was re-elected and served in iHSS, and the two years of her ad- 
ministration were crowned with success, thirteen members being added. 

In iSSy Sister Anna R. Noyes held this position, and to her efforis is 
largely due the prosperity of the lodge since that time. L'pon entering the 
duties of the office, she immediately formed a degree staff to assist in initi- 
ation : the membership increased. The year was a grand social success. 
The renewed interest proved an inspiration to her successors, and a prece- 
dent was thus established that has been a power ever since, and under the 
administration of the following named ladies the lodge has ranked among 
the first in the State. Laura .\. Byrnes, 1S90; Rachel A. Trull, iSyi ; Clara 
L. Clark, 1.S92; Josephine \. Bridges, 1S93 ; Ktta Chappell, 1894; Nellie C. 
Leighton, 1S95 ; Mary A. Thorpe, 1896. 

When the Somerville hospital was built, the lodge furnished a room in 
the building. At Christmas time donations of mone}-. fruit, clothing and 




Mrs. Harriet A. Ralph. 






^' 




Mrs. HARHltT A. Chamblklin. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 397 

other needful articles are sent to the Odd Fellows Home at Worcester, and 
many not members of the order can testify to dark hours made bright, and 
sorrow lightened through the efforts of the members of the lodge. 

A social feature, which is greatly enjoyed, is a sewing circle that meets 
at the homes of the members. At these meetings useful and fancy articles 
are made and various plans adopted, by which the treasury is kept well 
filled, and the members take great pleasure in distributing this money 
among those who by sickness or misfortune may find it useful. It is no un- 
common occurrence to have si.xty persons present at these gatherings. 



RAMONA LODGE. 

Ramona Lodge No. 93 was instituted 1 )ecember <), iSi^o, in Society Hall, 
Clarendon Block, West Somerville, the charter membership was twenty-six, 
all but one of the number having withdrawn from Erminie No. 76 for the 
purpose of forming this lodge. The name was suggested by Mrs. Estelle 
C. Bryant. 

In 1S91 the membership had increased to one hundred and thirteen, 
and is now about one hundred. 

At the time of institution, Mt. Sinai Lodge presented a set of gavels and 
a seal, and Caleb Rand Lodge gave a set of jewels. 

On the evening of December 29 of the same year seventy-three candi- 
dates were admitted, and Erminie Lodge presented ode-cards and banners. 

In July, 1 892, the building in which the meetings were held was par- 
tially destroyed by fire, the lodge losing all its property except the books. 
Erminie again showed its fraternal spirit by replacing the banners. 

This lodge also assists the Odd Fellows' Home and conducts a local re- 
lief w^ork. The following named members have held the position of Noble 
(Irand: William H. Spiller, Harriet A. Chamberlin, Estelle C. Bryant, 
Ella F. Wilkins, M. Jennie McGrath, Celene W. Darling. 

A feeling of friendship exists between the three organizations, the with- 
drawals in each case being for the extension of the work in this city. 

During the years since this branch of Odd Fellowship has conducted 
its efficient work in Somerville, the efforts of its members have met with 
success, largely due to the fact that they have been guided by the principles 
of the order, " Friendship, Love and Truth." 




N. B. Dana. 




JOHN F. KENNARD. 




Frederick E. Cheney 



SOMERVILLE. PAST AXD PRESENT. \0\ 



ERMINIE LODCiE, No. 76. 
Bv Mks. Flokkncf. Hurn. 
Erminie Rebekah Lodge was instituted at Winter Hill, March 25, 1S89, 
with a charter membership of thirty-eight. The credit of naming the lodge 
is due to Mrs. Sarah E. Melvin, one of the charter members. 

The first officers were : Noble Grand, John E. A. Mulliken ; Vice- 
Grand, Annah H. Perham ; secretary, Olive E. Wellcome; treasurer, S. E. 
Hollis ; financial secretary, S. E. Melvin. 

Paul Revere Lodge No. 1S4, L O. O. F., presented the lodge with its 
officers' jewels and a fine set of regalia. 

The Noble Grands have been : 18S9, J. E. A. Mulliken; 1S90, Annah 
H. Perham; 1891, Susan M. Tucker; 1.S92, Olive E. Wellcome; 1893, Ida 
E. Mayhew'; 1894, Nellie B. Preston; 1895, Hattie P. Chandler; 1896, 
Florence Hurn. 

Mr. Frank P. Tucker, a popular resident of Winter Hill, has been the 
efficient drill-master nearly all the time since the institution, giving his ser- 
vices freely. 

The lodge has furnished a room in the Somerville Hospital, and re- 
plenishes the furnishings as often as is required. It has also furnished a 
room in the Odd Fellows' Home at Worcester, and at Christmas time sends 
a box of useful articles for distribution among the inmates. 

This lodge is in a fiourishing condition, both numerically and finan- 
cially, the membership being nearly three hundred. 

Perfect harmony and sociability are marked characteristics of all the 
meetings, and loyalty to the order, devotion to its principles, and pride in 
its welfare are the distinctive qualities of a membership that has ever striven 
to advance the interests of the lodge. The visitation and care of the sick 
are carefully attended to. The members are wide-awake and progressive, 
and the past year has been one of great prosperity. The good work for 
which this lodge has a high reputation has always been kept up, and the 
standard set heretofore has been fully maintained. 

Appropriate services are held at a regular meeting in June of each year, 
in memory of those members who have passed away. The following is a 
list of deceased members: Jennie Abbott, Abbie J. Bean, Elizabeth J. 
Chisholm, Emma A. Durell, Emma J. Fuller, Joseph H. Hollis, Arozine M. 
Lane, Charles W. Lyman, Levi W\ Parker, E. Zettie Rines, Thomas R. 
Roulstone, Mercy K. Sanborn, Etta Whipple, Edgar L. Weeks. 

The regular meetings of this lodge are held on the second and fourth 
Monday evenings of each month at ( )dd Fellows' Hall. 




MRS. Florence Hurn. 



ODD LADIES. 



CONS^J'ELLATION LODGE. 

CONSTELLAIION LoDdE No. 34, INDEPENDENT OrDER OF ( )DD LaDIES, 

was instituted May i, i<S95, with 34 members : Noble Lady, M. \X. Yeaton ; 
Vice-Lady, S. Addie Johnson ; chaplain, L. F. Stevens ; recording secretary, 
M. S. Tracy; lady reporter, K. M. Jewett ; tinancial secretary, A. L. Glazier; 
treasurer, M. H. Snow; senior warden, H. C. Pearson; junior warden, K. 
C. Sargent; conductor, E. S. Paine; guardian, A. G. Young. 

The lodge now has 57 members, pays sick and death benefits, and is 
very prosperous. 

The present officers are : Noble Lady, M. S. Tracy ; Vice-Lady, E. Sy- 
monds; chaplain, N. S. Appley ; recording secretary, A. Campbell; lady 
reporter, M. E. Childs ; financial secretary, A. L. Glazier ; treasurer, M. H. 
Snow; conductor, H. K. Hammett; guardian, 1). S. Gilson ; senior warden, 
M. E. Dickerson; junior warden, F. E. Doyle; right-hand supporter, K. 
Stacy; left-hand supporter, H. Chamberlin ; senior representative, M. W. 
Yeaton : junior representative, S. Addie Johnson. 



LONGFELLOW LODGE, No. 41- 
Bv Mrs. Florenck Hirx. 

Longfellow Lodge No. 41, V. O. of L O. L., was instituted at Odd 
Fellows' Hall, Winter Hill, March 13, 1896. Its charter list contained sixty- 
eight names. The first Noble Lady was Mrs. Susie C. Perkins, who was 
also instrumental in forming the lodge. The present Noble Lady is Mrs. 
M. E. Ryan. The lodge has a membership of one hundred and twenty, and 
is the second largest lodge in the State. 

It has a benefit fund for the relief of members in sickness and distress. 
There is also a relief committee who faithfully cares for the sick, providing 
watchers when needed, and performing other duties of a kindred nature. 

This lodge has already attained a high reputation for sociability, and 
has the good will of all sister lodges. The membership includes a number 
of well-known ladies of Winter Hill, Gharlestown, Dorchester and other 
places who are prominent in both church and social aft'airs. 

403 



ANCIENT ORDER OF UNITED WORKMEN. 



somi:k\illk i.odck. Xo. 4.S. 

( )n I line 13, I s,S3, the following petitioners met in 15o\v-street Hall, I'olice 
lluilding, for the purpose of organizing a lodge of workmen: ihos. M. 
Durell, Frank K. Fitts, I'rank 15axter, Geo. ('. Ward, Herbert A. Chapin, 
Herbert W. Raymond, Win. I >. Hayden, W'm. K. Sanderson, Geo. L. Smith, 
(ieo. W. Hean, ("has. 1). l-'.Uiot. Seymour W. Harding and Melville C. Park- 
hurst. 

On June 29, 1). D. (>. M. W . (luilford S. Reed and suite, of Cambridge, 
instituted the same with the following otlicers : P. M. \V., Thos. M. Durell ; 
M. \\\, Frank K. Fitts; foreman, Frank Jiaxter ; overseer, Geo. C". Ward : 
guide, Wm. R. Sanderson; recorder, Herbert A. Chapin: linancier, Her- 
bert W. Raymond; receiver. Wm. I). Hayden ; in. W.. Geo. L. Smith. 

From these thirteen petitioners has grown one of the most flourishing 
organizations in Lnion square, and its yearly anniversary exercises and 
other social features make it one of the most successful lodges of its kind. 

1 )uring its thirteen years of existence it has initiated 220 members, and 
out of that number. 5 have died. 7 have withdrawn, and 15 have been sus- 
pended, leaving a membership at the i^resent time of 193. So few deaths 
and suspensions out of so many members in such a length of time is some- 
thing unusual in orders of this kind, and speaks well for the standard of its 
membership. The total amount paid out in death benefits is $16,500. 

The present officers are : P. M. W., Thos. Sharkey ; M. W., G. Leonard 
-McXieb; foreman, John I". Dardis : overseer. J. F. Rupert; recorder, Geo. 
15. Pitcher: financier. S. Gardner Higgins; receiver, Wm. E. Whitney; 
guide. R. J. Good: in. W.. Thos. Roberts; out. W., Geo. Adams. 



KNICniTS OF HONOR. 



Mi'. r.FNFDTCr T,OI)GF.. 

Mr. l>K.\Kr)icr L()I)(;k, No. S72, KMCHrsui' Honor, was organized Jan- 
uary 30, 1S7S, John F. Cole being elected past dictator, and Dr. Horace P. 
Hemenway the first dictator; Abbott L. Knowles was elected financial re- 
porter, and Fdwin S. Conant treasurer, positions w-hich they have both held 
up to the present time. 
404 



SOMERMLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 405 

The lodge had the good fortune to secure as members many of the 
prominent citizens of East Somerville, and at one time numbered 125 
members. 

The lodge has paid for the relief of sick and needy members nearly 
$1,000, and to the families of its deceased members $36,000. 

CAMERON LODGE, No. 1146. 

This lodge was instituted July 25, i.SyS, with a membership of 2,1 ^ which 
has been increased to 125. Owing to deaths and withdrawals, the present 
membership is 47. 

The deaths, which have been sixteen, have drawn from the order 
$32,000. The lodge at present has property and funds invested amounting 
to Si 5,000. Its meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of 
each month in Lenity Hall. 



KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS. 



ARCADIA LODGE, No. 113. 
Bv Elmer L. (_;laziek. 

On the evening of December 10, 1894, a company of gentlemen met in 
Columbian Hall, West Somerville, by invitation of Harvey S. Garcelon and 
Elmer L. Glazier, for the purpose of discussing the order of Knights of 
Pythias, with a view to forming a lodge in that part of the city, and a 
preliminary organization was formed, with Harvey S. Ciarcelon as chairman. 
From that meeting the work went rapidly on, until on the 30th day of 
January, 1895, Arcadia Lodge No. 113 was instituted with 61 charter mem- 
bers, and the following officers were elected and installed : Harvey S. 
Garcelon, chancellor commander; Frederick C. Gohring, vice-chancellor; 
James C. Howard, prelate ; Barnett T. Skelton, master of work ; Elmer L. 
Glazier, keeper of records and seal ; I )elavan C. Delano, master of hnance ; 
Frederick :\. P. Fiske, master of exchequer; Frederick 15. King, master of 
arms ; Homer C. \\'heeler, inner guard ; Theodore C. Ripley, outer guard; 
Harvey S. Garcelon and Alvin Phillips, representatives to the Grand Lodge ; 
and Dr. H. P. Makechnie, I. C. Earle and M. S. Andrews, trustees. 

Early in the year Frederick C. Gohring resigned as vice-chancellor, and 
Eugene B. Stoddard was elected in his place. 

The lodge meets regularly on the first and third Wednesday evenings of 
each month at 8 o'clock, and it has gained an enviable reputation for the 
good quality of its work. 

Of the charter members only eight were members of the order. Of 
these four were past chancellors. 

P. C. Elmer L. Glazier, the senior P. C. and senior knight as well, 



406 SOMIlRl'JI.l.i:. J'.IST .WD PRESllXT. 

was initiated in November, 1S70. and became 1*. ('.. July i, \'^~i. Harvey 
S. Garcelon had been a member about fifteen years, and the others a 
less time. 

The present otirtcers are: Geo. i". I'ailey, ciiancellor commander: Ired- 
erick H. King, vice-chancellor; Homer C Wheeler, prelate; .Samuel N. 
Crosby, master of work: Klmer L. (Hazier, keeper of records and seal; |. 
Haines Maxwell, master of linance; George A. Merrill, master of ex- 
chequer; Ernest S. I-irth, master at arms: David G. Boyd, inner guard; 
John A. Magee, outer guard; Mathew S. Andrews. Harvey S. Garcelon, 
liarnett T. Skelton, trustees; Harvey S. Garcelon and Harnett T. Skelton. 
representatives of Grand Lodge. 



ROYAL ARCANUM. 



SC)MKk\ ILLK COL'NCIL. 

SoMKRViLLE Council X<». 6 was instituted November 2S, 1S7-. It is 
located in Union square, and its meetings are held in Society Hall, on the 
first and third Tuesdays of the month. 

The total number of members admitted since the date of institution is 
212, of which 141 are in good standing on the rolls at the present time. 
There have been 16 deaths in this council since it was organized. 

The following are the present officers : Regent. Charles \V. Boyer ; \ice- 
Regent, l^eter P. Lawson ; Past Regent, John Millar; orator, W. K. Goss : 
secretary, K. W. Doyle; collector, Charles W. Silsbee; treasurer, J. (^. 
Twombley; chaplain, George B. Clarke; guide, John Hunter: warden, E. 
E. Jordan; sentry, A. A. Lewis. The trustees are: H. A. Chapin, H. W. 
Raymond and (ieorge A. Snow. 

ELM COUNCIL. 

Elm Council No. 36 was instituted December 5, 1877, with 34 mem- 
bers, and increased its membership to 2S1. The present membership is 
206, owing to deaths and withdrawals. The deaths of 30 members have 
drawn from the order 588,500. It has at present property and money in- 
vested, 51,662.37. 

It has had one supreme regent and one representative to the supreme 
council from its ranks. 

It meets on the first and third Thursdays, and holds its meetings in 
I-'raternity Hall, this city. 




Capt. Harrison Aldrich. 




Capt. HnNRY W. Pitman. 



SOMl-lRllLLE, PAST AND PRESEXr. 409 

SOMERVILLK LIGHT INFANTRY. 
r.v IIknkv W. rriMAX. 

On the third day of August, 1853, about seventy-five well-known resi- 
dents of Somerville met and formed the Somerville Light Infantry, and it 
was designated by the otificial title of ('o. A, Fourth Regiment of Light 
Infantry. 

George O. Erastow was elected commander, Isaac 1^'. Shepard first 
lieutenant, Francis Tufts second, R. 1!. Fitts third, and Henry \\ . Allen 
fourth lieutenants, j. Manley Glark was made first sergeant and clerk of 
the company. 

A constitution and by-laws were adopted, and judging by the tenor, no 
stronger pledges to loyalty, patriotism and duty could have been made. 

Franklin Hall, near L'nion square, was the first armory, and the corps 
soon assumed indications of being a truly live military organization. The 
membership list increased rapidly, the uniforms and arms were promptly 
secured, and the proficiency came with such celerity that a target shoot was 
entered upon November 9, three months after formation. Emery H. Mun- 
roe and the commander were adjudged the victors, but the private declined 
to accept the medal, and it was given to Francis H. Raymond, a volunteer 
of the occasion. 

On the 30th of March, 1854, the company, for the first time in uniform, 
attended the funeral of the last survivor of the Lexington Minutemen, 
Jonathan Harrington, and after the services had been rendered, marched 
to Somerville by e.xactly the same route as that passed over by the British 
troops on their retreat from Lexington in 1775. 

In June, 1854, Commander Brastow having been elected a major of the 
regiment, Second Lieutenant Francis Tufts was elected captain, J. Manley 
Clark first, Alvin (r. Lovejoy second, Gorham A. Leland third, and N. 
Everett Fitz fourth lieutenants respectively. 

It is needless to follow the company in its detailed history. It had its 
accessions to membership, its social occasions, its stated tours of duties, its 
parades for festive as well as funeral events, and a life not unlike many of 
similar organizations. From its inception the Somerville Light Infantry 
formed the nucleus of the social life of the town, and furnished great en- 
joyment to the people. Five members from among the prominent families 
contributed the usual fee towards the support of the command, and engaged 
in the festive occasions with avidity and pleasure. On the 29th of Jul}-, 
1859, George O. Brastow was again elected to command the company, Capt. 
Tufts having resigned and taken position among the rank and file. He 
remained with the corps a long time, rendering good service to the com- 
mander and his associates. 

It is worthy of mention that on July 6, i860, Willard C. Kinsle)-, who 
afterwards rendered signal service during the war of the rebellion, and for 
whom the Grand Army Post in Somerville is named, became a member of 
the company. 



4IO SOMERlII.I.i:, PAST .l.\7> /'A'PSJi.VT. 

There is no record of ihe association from I'ebruary. iS^i. for a long 
period, but it is well known that at the call of Gov. Andrew for the first 
three months' troops, the Somerville Light Infantry, as Co. I, Fifth Regi- 
ment, Mass. \'. .M.. Samuel ('. Lawrence, commanding, responded with a 
hundred of Somerville's best sons. 

The details of the war service of the company have devolved upon one 
who is more competent than any other person to compile and present them. 
Suffice to say that the Somerville Light Infantry furnished four companies, 
for the war, namely, for three months, a hundred days, nine months and 
three years. The companies were several times recruited, and each organ- 
ization returned home with its escutcheon unspotted and unstained. 

The commanders of the war companies were : Capt. W. K. Robinson. 
I]. 1"". Parker, John .\. Coflin and l-'rederic R. Kinsley, the latter being 
promoted to be major and lieutenant-colonel. 

After the war the company maintained its organization, recruiting from 
the young men of the town. The same local interest in the company which 
was manifest in the early days of peace was again awakened under the able 
commandership of Capt. (Granville \\. Daniels and Charles F. King. The 
former subsequently became a major, and the latter major and lieutenant- 
colonel of the Fifth Regiment. 

July 6, 1.S76, the companj' was disbanded by an order reducing the 
companies of the militia: but June 3, 1.SS6, permission was granted to form 
a new command as Co. M, F.ighth Infantry, with Harrison Aldrich, who had 
been a captain in a war company, as commander, Henry W. Pitman as first 
lieutenant, and S. Thomas Kirk as second lieutenant. 

The laws and regulations of the militia had changed materially in the 
eleven years intervening between the old and new companies. An examin- 
ing board determined the efiliciency of the commissioned officers. Skilled 
markmanship had become a matter of consideration, a stricter attention 
paid to discipline, more temperate demeanor in camp and other tours of 
duty, and penalties were more severely indicted. A soldier of i.ssr> meant 
more, and has been meaning more for the past ten years, but it is a matter 
of pride to chronicle the fact that the Somer\ille Light Infantry has kept 
pace with the best companies in the militia. To this day the command is 
most creditable, the people continue to take an interest in it. and everything 
bids fair for a history whicii will long continue enshrouded witii honor and 
ability. 

Since the reorganization the corjjs has won medals, trophies, etc., and 
the several prize drills, target shoots and reunions have e\inced degrees 
never before attained by the early organizations. This is no reflection on 
the latter, but the requirements of the military department of the State are 
greater and more exacting. 

On the 4th of March, 1SS9, the company visited Washingloii under the 
command of Capt. Pitman, and was part of the grand pageant at the in- 
auguration of President Harrison. Many associate members accompanied 
it, and were emphatic in their praise of the corps during this tour of duty. 




Capt. Horace M. Parsons. 



412 S0MKR17/. /./■:. /'.IS/ .i.\7> /7^/:s/:x/: 

TIk' commanders since the reorganization have been : 1 larrison Aidricli, 
Henry \\'. Pitman. S. Thomas Kirk and Horace M. Parsons, the latter being 
now in command, and he is entitled to great credit for his attention to the 
company's interests. 

Capt. Parsons was recently elected a major of the Eighth Infantry, but 
declined the honor. 

Tlie lieutenants at present are: Herbert W. W'hittcn and (George L. 
Marshall. 

In connection with the history of the Somerville Light Infantry the 
following interesting extracts from a letter from Capt. Brastow to John K. 
Hall, which speak in the warmest terms of the liberality and patriotism of 
the people of Somerville in the civil war, can find an appropriate place. 

W'ashini; ION, 1). C, May 13. iSAi. 

Mv DEAR 1)R()THEK JoHX K. 

While a West Point lieutenant is drilling ni)- company, as he does not 
want us officers around. I will devote a few minutes in hastily writing you 
a few lines. 

I assure you we all duly appreciate the gallant civilit\ of oiu' good 
townsmen in turning out in so large numbers under your command on the 
day of our march from good old Somerville. Xo town has more liberally 
and more heartily come right up to the aid and encouragement of her 
soldiers than our town I 

We all feel it sensibly and tenderly, and we must be recreant to every 
feeling of gratitude and of patiotism if we do not feel the ///// 7<i'ilg/if of our 
obligation to perform our duties manfully, and prove ourselves worthy of all 

this confidence and kind generosity \11 our lodge members remember 

with interest your meeting last Tuesday evening, and we have heard with 
much pleasure of the waving of the glorious stars and stripes from the 
building, (jod grant that this struggle may add new brilliancy to the Hag 
of our fathers, the Hag of our country, the Hag of our /o7'i- and /iopi\ and the 
tiag for which we will cheerfully die if need be. 

\ our friend, 

IJkas row. 






Robert Luce. 




Frank E. Dickerman. 



CLUBS. 

CENTRAL CLUB ASSOCIATION. 

Bv C'llAKLKS E. r.VKKS. 

In December, iSSC), the following;- named residents of Somerville : Chris- 
topher K. Rymes, George A. Bruce, Charles S. Lincohi, (jeorge F. Loring, 
John E. Sylvester, Charles F. Rice, Wallace H. Ham, Harry Highley, 
Douglas Frazar, Herbert C. Hall and Joseph O. Hayden, believing it de- 
sirable to have a club-house in the city, signed articles of agreement to 
secure, under the Public Statutes of Massachusetts, the incorporation of the 
club under the title of the Central Club Association. The charter was pro- 
cured in the same month, the site on the corner of Highland avenue and 
Central street selected, and building was commenced as soon as practicable. 
The gentlemen above named constituted the first board of directors, and 
they organized by electing the following as officers of the association : 
Christopher E. Rymes, president; Charles S. Lincoln, first vice-president; 
George A. Bruce, second vice-president ; Joseph ( ). Hayden, treasurer ; 
Charles F. Rice, secretary. 

The building was completed and formally opened Monday, October lo, 
1SS7, and the occasion was one of the most brilliant social events in the 
history of Somerville. 

The club roster (200) was immediately filled by the representative men 
of the city, and, under the presidencies of Christopher F. Rymes, Charles A. 
West, Hon. Edward Glines and Frank F. Dickerman, the association has 
held the prestige which was established on the opening night. 

The Central was the first suburban club-house built especially for club 
purposes in the neighborhood of Boston. 

The members meet frequently in a social way, and take an active in- 
terest in whist, billiards, pool and bowling, and the club always has teams 
to represent it in the different league tournaments. 

The whist team has taken all the whist prizes off'ered in the Inter-Club 
tournaments, and held the championship trophy of the New England Whist 
Association in the winter of 1895 and 1X96. 

During the winter months the members of the club entertain their lady 
friends at least once a month. 

SONS OF MAINE CLUB. 
Bv Robert I.uce. 
Many of the residents of Somerville were born in the State of Maine. 
The spirit of fellowship has always been strong in natives of that State, and 

415 



41 6 SOMERin.U:. J'. 1ST .1X1) /'A' AS AX/: 

some of those living in Sonierville thought it would be pleasant to take ad- 
vantage of that fact by organizing a club where acquaintance could be in- 
creased, old times recalled, and the good name of their native State be 
honored. So in iSi^o, chietly through the instrumentality of Col. Charles F. 
King and Mr. C. ('. Farrington, a meeting of representative citizens organ- 
ized the Sons of Maine. xXaturally and very wisely ("ol. Ring was made 
the first president, and Mr. Farrington secretary. It has been the policy 
of the club to choose a new president each year, and the office has been 
held in turn by Dr. H. C. White, Dr. H. P. Makechnie. Robert Luce, Dr. 
A. H. Carvill and Hon. A. A. Perry. Mr. Farrington has remained the 
secretary from the start, and to his interest in the affairs of the club it is 
greatly indebted for its prosperity. Among other well-known citizens who 
have contributed to its welfare have been : Col. I'.lijah Walker, Prof. George 
M. Harmon of Tufts, Melville C. Parkhurst, Porter S. Roberts, F. W. 
Hopkins, Louis E. Merry, Franklin F. IMiillips, George H. Kuss, M. L. 
Ring, John F. Mills, Rev. L. ^L Powers, Albion H. I5rown, Capt. John F. 
Merry, Charles H. Crane, Rev. S. S. Cummings, (George M. Starbird, S. S. 
Woodcock, C. C. Folsom and James E. Relley. The club has had two or 
three banquets each year, to most of which the ladies have been invited. 
Among the Sons of Maine who have been its guests on these occasions 
have been General Chamberlain, E.K-Governor Long, Col. A. P. Martin. 
Judge Enos T. Luce, A. A. Strout, Esq., and Dana Estes. 

DACCirrERS OF MAINE CTA'B. 

i;v Mrs. Mai 1 ». 1-k.\/.\k. 

One of the organizations of which Somerville has reason to be proud 
is the Daughters of Maine Club, that in four years has reached a member- 
ship of two hundred and seventy-five. 

When Col. King was president of the Sons of Maine Club he suggested 
the forming of an organization for Maine women, and acting upon this a 
meeting was called, this Club was organized, and Mrs. King was chosen 
president, with Mrs. Harriet A. Chamberlin, Mrs. S. A. P. Dickerman and 
Mrs. Helen M. McCully as vice-presidents : Miss Pessie R. White and Mrs. 
Clara P. Haven, each for si.\ months as secretaries : and the executive com- 
mittee was Mrs. Lizzie .\dams, Mrs. Adrianna \'. Cloyse, Mrs. Carleton, 
Mrs. George A. Clark and Mrs. Annie ^L Farrington. 

Mrs. King had presided only twice, when she, with all Sonicr\ ille. was 
called to mourn the loss of Col. King, who had been a man of mark in the 
city, by reason of his wide sympathies, broad charities and liberal, progres- 
sive spirit. 

At the urgent request of the ladies, Mrs. King allowed her name to 
stand as president for the remainder of the year, and then Mrs. Harriet 
A. Chamberlin was elected to fill the office, the other members on the com- 
mittee being Mrs. Alice S. Waterhouse, Mrs. .\drianna V. Cloyse, Mrs. 
LydiaA.Greely,vice-presidents: Mrs. Clara P. Haven, secretary; Mrs. llattie 



X. 




Mrs. Mae D. Frazar. 




Mrs. Clara P. Haven. 



SOMERVILLK. PAST AXD P RES EXT. 419 

J. Teele, treasurer ; Mrs. Ella K. liurroughs. Mrs. Martha I. Sturtevant, 
Mrs. Amanda C. Blanchard, Mrs. Martha K. IJoyden and Mrs. Carrie H. 
W'aining, on the executive board. 

The Club was intended to be a social one, but it undertook some chari- 
table work during its first jx'ars, and since its organization has expended over 
5600 in individual cases for charity and in furnishing the trustees' room at 
the Somerville Hospital, in which has lately been placed, by the Club, a fine 
portrait of Col. King. In 1S94 Mrs. Clara I'. Haven was chosen president; 
Mrs. Mary K. King, Mrs. lona L. Robinson and Mrs. Hattie J. Teele, vice- 
presidents : Mrs. Martha A. Mann, secretary; Mrs. Lydia A. Greely, 
treasurer ; executive committee, Mrs. Harriet Wilder, Mrs. Ella Burroughs, 
Mrs. Mary E. Taylor, Mrs. Abbie PI Southworth and Mrs. Achsa M. Mills. 

The Club meetings had been held in the Y. M. C. A. Hall, at L^nion 
square, at Social Hall, Eberle IJuilding, and in the V. M. C. A. Hall, in 
(Jilman square; but during the year 1S94 the Club took up its quarters at 
Social Hall,'l"ufts street, where the gatherings were held, not only for social 
enjoyment, but also for discussions of literary subjects, for, as the member- 
ship increased, the ladies felt it imperative that they undertake some work 
of this sort; and as it had been found to be mexpedient to undertake large 
or extensive charities, it was decided to restrict the work in this direction 
to special objects. Six lectures were given during the winter. 

In 1895 the officers elected were : president, Mrs. Clara 1'. Haven ; vice- 
presidents, Mrs. Martha A. Mann, Mrs. Lydia A. Shaw and Mrs. Hannah 
S. Longfellow; Mrs. Maria F. Hall was secretary, but resigning in March, 
Mrs. Eannie J>. Kelly [was elected; Mrs. Lydia A. (ireely was treasurer, 
and on the executive committee were Mrs. Amanda C. lUanchard, Mrs. 
.Mice M. Hill, Mrs. Achsa-M. Mills, Mrs. Addie K. Davlin and Mrs. 'i'heresa 
S. King. 

'J'his was a memorable year for the Club, as it undertook careful and 
important literary work, established a fund for a home for women in Som- 
erville. was incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts and joined the 
State federation of Women's Clubs. 

The charter members were : Mrs. Mary E. King, Mrs. Harriet .\. Cham- 
berlin, Mrs. Clara P. Haven, Mrs. Lydia A. Shaw, Mrs. .\chsa M. Mills, 
Mrs. I'annie B. Kelly, Mrs. Harriet T. Wilder, Mrs. Hattie J. Teele, Mrs. 
Theresa S. King, Mrs. Addie R. Davlin, .Mrs. H;innah S. Longfellow, Mrs. 
Emma E. P)acon, Mrs. Isadore P. Merrill, Mrs. Lydia \. Greely, Mrs. 
Adrianna \'. Cloyse, Mrs. Amanda C. Blanchard, Mrs. Alice L Bill, Mrs. 
Maria E. Hill, Mrs. Helen McCully. 

'Phe present year found the I )aughters of Maine in a most prosperous 
condition, and while the social element is not lost sight of, the Club is be- 
coming known as a literary one. The officers for the year are : president, 
Mrs. Clara P. Haven ; vice-presidents, Mrs. Lydia A. Shaw, Mrs. Hannah 
S. Longfellow, Mrs. Emma E. Bacon ; recording secretaries, Mrs. Dora R. 
Houghton, resigned in March, Mrs. Rebecca S. Waldron ; corresponding 
secretary, Mrs. Isadore P. Merrill ; executive committee, Mrs. Hattie J. 



420 SDM/'.h'i //././■:, /'.IS'/' .i.\'/> /'/:/:s/:.v/\ 

Teele, Mrs. Alice S. Waterhouse, Mrs. Achsa M. Mills. Mrs. Mary K. King. 
Mrs. Adrianna\'. C'loyse. Mrs. Carrie V. Clark, Mrs. lidelia A. Trait, Mrs. 
Elizabeth G. Ciishing. 

Each season a dinner is given to the Sons of Maine, and there is also 
an annuaKdinner and reception for Club members, at which the ladies prove 
themselves very clever as after-dinner speakers. There is also an outing in 
the early summer, which has become quite a feature in the history of the 
Club. 

Through able management, wise judgment, and combined unity of ac- 
tion and interest, the Daughters of Maine are doing an important work m 
our city. 

Tin: IIKTTOREAN CLL B. 
Bv Mks. Bakhaka Gaii'IN. 

" Why does not Somerville have a woman's club ? " was the question pro- 
pounded in the " Somerville journal '" in its issue of November 17, 1S94, and 
in less than one week that which was to become one of the strongest and 
best clubs in Massachusetts was organized. 'I'he matter of a woman's club 
had been discussed many times, and this article in the "Journal " brought 
the matter to definite action. By invitation of Mrs. Edward Glines, the 
women who were interested in the project met at her residence. Friday, 
November 24, 1S94, to discuss the feasibility of such an organization. 
Among those present were : Mrs. C. A. West, Mrs. E. H. Foote, Mrs. I. A. 
W'hitcomb, ISIrs. C. F. Simes, Mrs. E. T. Bartlett. Mrs. E. G. Woodward. 
Mrs. L. R. Wentworth, Mrs. A. C. Aldrich. Mrs. J. E. W hitaker. Mrs. H. 
W. Gleason, Mrs. M. I ). irazar. Mrs. W. M. (ileason, Mrs. F. C. Ayer. Mrs. 
A. F. Follett. Mrs. W . H. lirine. Mrs. Barbara (ialpin, .Mrs. S. Z. Bowman, 
Mrs. W. T. Hinckley, Mrs. W. J. Willard and Mrs. Robert Luce. 

A discussion of the subject showed it to be the unanimous opinion 
that a club which should unite the interests of the women of the city for 
mutual improvement would be of great benefit to them, as well as to the 
city, and it was at once formed. The officers chosen for the first year's 
work were: president, Mrs. C. A. West: vice-presidents, Mrs. E. T. I'.art- 
lett and Mrs. E. H. Foote; corresponding secretary, Mrs. F. H. Raymond: 
recording secretary, Mrs. E. G. Woodward : treasurer, .Mrs. P.arbara (ialpin ; 
auditor, Mrs. H. (;. Minot : directors, Mrs. W . 11. Brine, Mrs. S. Z. Bowman, 
Mrs. E. J. Peasley, Mrs. J. H. Butler, Mrs. C. S. Lincoln, Mrs. 15. !•". Wild, 
Mrs. E. S. Tead ; chairmen of committees : Miss H. |. Sanborn, literature : 
Mrs. G. L. Ba.xter, science: Mrs. J. E. Sylvester, art: Mrs. E. H. Capen, 
political economy : Mrs. Sanford Hanscom, music; Mrs. M. D. Frazar. cur- 
rent events ; Mrs. I. .\. Whitcomb, hospitality. 

At the next meeting it was decided to limit the Club membership to two 
hundred, but later on it was extended to three hundred, and in November, 
1896, it was again extended, and the Club now has three hundred and fifty 
active members, nine non-resident members, and one honorary member — 
Mrs. Martha Perry Lowe — and a waiting list of one hundred and sixty. 




Mrs. Barbara Galpin. 




Mrs. Anna D. West. 



SOMEIU'ILLK, PAST AXD PRESENT. 423 

The object of the Club is to bring together women from all parts of the 
city for mutual improvement and sociability, and to become an organized 
centre for united thought and action. 

The Heptorean Club was incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts. 
January 15, 1S95, and joined the State Federation of Women's Clubs the 
same year. 

During the first year of the existence of the Club lectures were given by 
Prof. K. Charlton Black, Prof. G. Stanley Hall, Henry Sandham, William 
Lloyd Garrison, I'rof. Louis C. Elson, the late Kate Field and others of 
eciual note, and classes in literature, botany and current events were held, 
-Miss Lucia True Ames and Prof. Katherine Lee Pates conducting the lit- 
erature classes, Miss Frances Prince that in botany, and Mrs. Barbara Gal- 
pin that in current events. 

At the end of the first year the ofticers were unanimously re-elected, it 
being a recognized fact that when a new club is launched upon the waters 
of public approval, master hands are required to keep it from running on 
the shoals of adverse criticism, of quiet scorn, or of open ridicule. 

During the year 1895-1896 a great advance was made in the work of 
the Club, due in a great measure to the eft'orts of the president, Mrs. A. 
D. West, a woman of wise judgment, superior executive ability and delicate 
tact. Under her leadership, assisted by efiicient ofiicers, an enviable repu- 
tation was made. 

Prof. T. H. Bartlett, Mrs. Florence Howe-Hall, Prof. John Fiske, Attor- 
ney-General Hosea M. Knowlton, Prof. L. C. Elson, Miss Heloise Hersey, 
Prof. Henry Southwick and other celebrated speakers addressed the Club 
at the regular literary meetings, while the red-letter occasion of the year was 
the first gentlemen's night, held February 20, 1896. At the reception which 
followed the entertainment the guests were received by the officers of the 
Club, assisted by Mayor A. A. Perry. This was the finest social event ever 
held in Somerville, and was attended by the representative people of the 
city. 

At the close of the Chib year in May, 1S96, the ofticers elected were as 
follows: president, Mrs. A. I). West; vice-presidents. Mrs. J. H. Butler and 
Mrs. PI H. Capen ; corresponding secretary, Mrs. H. H. Trowbridge: re- 
cording secretary, Mrs. E. G. Woodward ; treasurer, Mrs. Barbara (ialpin ; 
auditor, Mrs. M. 1). Frazar : directors, Mrs. G. E. Dustin, Mrs. Edward 
Glines, Mrs. F. M. Howes, Mrs. S. C. Alford, Mrs. J. S. Hayes, Mrs. E. S. 
Brooks, Mrs. C. P. Lincoln ; chairmen of committees: Miss Sarah W. Fox, 
literature; Mrs. J. E. Sylvester, art; Mrs. Sanford Hanscom, music; Mrs. 
G. L. Baxter, science; Mrs. G. 1". Knight, current events; Mrs. Y. H. Ray- 
mond, political economy ; and Mrs. 1. A. Whitcomb, hospitality. 

'Phe Heptorean Club has proved an important factor in helping to 
unify Somerville, bringing its dift'erent scattered sections together into 
closer and more friendly relations, and, with the exception of the hospital, 
there is nothing which so unites the best elements of Somerville life as this 
institution. 



.^ *v ^ 




Helen J. Sanborn. 



SOMKRl'ILLE, PAST .LVD PRESENT. 425 

THE HILLSIDE CLUB. 

Bv Helen J. Sam'.drn. 

The literary society that enters upon the fifteenth year of its existence 
with as great a measure of prosperity and promise as has ever characterized 
it, since the days of its first enthusiasm, has not only proved its right to be, 
but has also demonstrated that it contains some germs of perpetuity and 
some standing in the community of which it forms a part. The Hillside 
has seen many a club organize, flourish for a time, and then pass away, 
while it pursues its work with its form and purpose unchanged, and with 
many of its original members still acti\e. 

In this day of multiplied organizations it is pertinent to ask, "What is 
the well-spring of the life of such a club ? '" Simply individual effort, the most 
natural and rational source from which the greatest benefit is to be derived 
in any walk in life. The members of the Hillside Club do their own work. 
They write the papers themselves: and, while much profit and pleasure is 
doubtless to be derived from listening to lectures by able professionals, far 
more knowledge and enjoyment comes from the investigation of a subject 
for one's self, and the presentation of it, in written or spoken form, toothers. 
lust this opportunity is given in the Hillside Club, and the member who 
thinks it the greatest task, and who enters upon it the most reluctantly, 
never fails, after it is done, to say, " I am glad I did it. It was good for 
me." 

An evidence that this is the vital principle of the Club is shown by the 
fact that those who fall voluntarily out of the ranks are generally from the 
list of associate members, who, by the payment of a little larger fee, are 
exempt from service. In some cases these are among the most valued 
members, for appreciative listeners and faithful attendants at the meetings 
are most desirable in any organization, yet they do not sustain the literary 
work, and, as a rule, it is the active and not the associate member that 
remains longest in the society. It is noticeable, too, that the periods of 
temporary eclipse from which the Club has occasionally sufi^ered have oc- 
curred when it has departed from its first principles, or has introduced 
elements foreign to their nature. 

The Hillside has never been the exponent of a single church, although 
its members and officers have been mainly from the Winter Hill Congrega- 
tional Church. The first meeting for organization was held in the chapel, 
corner of Broadway and Sycamore street, October 10, 1SS2, when a number 
of residents of Winter Hill came together to form a society for literary and 
social purposes. Of that meeting, John S. Hayes, who is the real founder 
of the Club, acted as chairman, and Henry C. Baldwin as secretary. Two 
weeks later the permanent organization was effected, and the following list 
of officers chosen for the first year : president, Joseph M. Thompson ; vice- 
president. Miss Emma S. Keyes ; secretary, Erank E. Dickerman ; assistant 
secretary. Miss Emily G. Colman ; treasurer, Frank E. Davis; executive 



SOMERllLLE. PAST AXD PRESENT. 427 

committee, Joseph M. Thompson, Rev. Chas. L. Noyes, John S. Hayes, 
Mrs. W'illard, .S. Farrar, Miss Emma S. Keyes. 

Since the first year the following persons have filled the oftice of 
president : John S. Hayes (three years at different periods), John Herbert, 
Edwin A. Stone, William E. I'ulsifer (two years), Samuel C. Darling, Ed- 
ward S. Townsend, Helen J. Sanborn (now serving the third year). Rev. 
('has. L. Noyes, pastor of the Winter Hill Congregational Church, has served 
upon the executive committee from the beginning, and to his wise judgment 
and fertile suggestions the Club is very largely indebted for any measure of 
success that it has attained. 

The constituency of the Club is the same as that of a large family in 
which there is not only a difference in age and sex, but also a wide differ- 
ence in tastes, in natural gifts and attainments. There are mature and 
immature minds ; the scholarly man and the ''sweet girl graduate '" ; there 
are those who can produce papers that would grace any society of " literati," 
and those who, with fear and trembling, can but read that which another 
has written. Some of the best literary work from the pen of the present 
mayor of Somerville has been prepared especially for the Hillside, of 
which he has long been a member. Some find in it their only opportunit} 
for the investigation of a new subject, and the writing of an original paper. 
( )thers make use of their musical talent, for music often serves as an illus- 
tration, and always gives an added pleasure to the program. An oppor- 
tunity for social converse is a part of each evening's plan. A private house 
as the meeting-place adds an air of refinement and the charm of hospitality, 
and an "outing" in May tends to promote friendly feeling and good-fel- 
lowship. 

To prepare a program that shall be profitable to all, and achieve the 
greatest good to the greatest number, is the difficult problem that meets the 
executive committee each year. \'ariety there must be. and unity is so de- 
sirable that a course, when it can be determined upon, is thought by the 
present directors, at least, to be most beneficial. One of the most popular 
seasons of the Club was enjoyed under the presidency of Dr. H. H. Riper, 
when historical novels were the subject. The countries of the Mediter- 
ranean proved a very profitable theme three years ago, and this year the 
study of ''our countr}' " will embrace literature, art, science, history, current 
events and political economy. 

Whenever outside talent is called in, it is always of the highest order, 
and it is likely that an ''open meeting," once during the season, with a 
lecture or a reading, like that of last year, when Prof. J. J. Hayes, of Har- 
vard University, gave a delightful rendering of a Midsummer Night's 
Dream, will be made a feature of the Club. 

The Somerville "Journal," in announcing the program for 1X94-5. 
called the Hillside "one of the important educational factors in our city." 
'I'he Club itself makes no claims to distinction, but pursues its work without 
ostentation. The only material evidence of its public spirit to which it can 
point is the tablets that mark the historic spots of Somerville, placed there 



42 8 SOMF.Rl/I.IE, r.lST AXP I RllSI-.Xr. 

as the result of a petition from its members. The Club's importance and 
its value lie not in the results it achieves, but in the fact that, while it 
falls far short of its ideals, it aims for that which is refining, elevatintj, edu- 
cational and pro^ijressive, and exists '* For Mutual (iood and Mutual Need." 

WEUCUWIT C'Ll'I'.. 

1!V J. l-'i)STl.K t'l.AKK. 

The Webcowit Club was organized December 5, 1.S.S5, at the call of 
Lester L. Cole, who, with thirty others, were charter members of the organi- 
zation. Their meetings were held in a hall on the corner of Broadway and 
Franklin street, and in December, 1886, they moved into their present club- 
house at 56 Mount X'ernon street. 

The object of the Club is the promotion of social intercourse, and the 
encouragement of kindly feeling and good-fellowship among its members. 
The officers are : a president, a vice-president, a treasurer, a secretary and 
five directors, who together constitute the executive committee. These 
officers are elected by ballot at the annual meeting of the Club, and hold 
office until others are chosen, and who accept office in their stead. 

The annual meeting of the Club is held on the first Thursday in Decem- 
ber, and the regular monthly meetings occur in the evening of the first 
Thursday of each month. 

The club-house is open from eight o'clock a. m. until twelve o'clock 
1'. M., and the executive committee may, by vote, extend the privileges of 
the club-house to any stranger within such limitations as they shall think 
proper. Members who invite gentlemen to the club-house are rec|uired to 
enter their names in a visitor's book kept for that purpose, with his own 
name and date of introduction. The club-house ma\- be opened to ladies 
accompanied by members of the Club at the pleasure of the executive com- 
mittee. 

The Webcowit ( "lub has enrolled as members many of the prominent 
citizens of East .Somerville, among whom may be named Dr. H. P. Hemen- 
way, Ex-Mayor Charles G. Fope, Horace Haskins, John Haskell Hutler, 
Charles H. Buswell, John \V. Chatman. William Taylor, Charles Williams. 
Ir.. lohn F. Cole, Elijah C. Clark. Amasa K. Southworth, Ceorge W. Per- 
kins, Ex-Mayor Mark F. Burns. Lucius Tuttle. and others. |. Foster Clark 
was its first president, and he was re-elected in i8Sf. and in iSSS to 1892 
inclusive. Mark F. Burns was president in 1887, Robert 11. kiddell in i8.;3 
and 1894. and Elijah C. Clark was elected president in 1.S95 and 189O. 

Charles M. Hemenway was the first secretary, and Charles H. Buswell 
treasurer. The title Webcowit was adopted at the suggestion of L. L. Clole. 

The members have entertained their ladies and friends many times, and 
though the Club is prevented from exceeding its limit of membership (one 
hundred) by its restricted locality, it has always commanded the respect of 
the entire community. 







Elijah C. Clark. 




J. Foster Clark. 




Fred Preston. 




Hdwin N. Simon ds. 



SOMERIJIJ.E, J'. 1ST .1X1) /'A'/;.s7iXT. 433 

WINTER HILL CLUB. 

BV JiiHN 1''. Kl.NNAKH. 

This is one of the purely social organizations which abound in Somer- 
ville, and is at the present time in a fiourishing condition. It was organ- 
ized in the winter of 1SS4-5 by thirty or more of the prominent citizens of 
Winter Hill, who were " desirous of forming a club for the purpose of bring- 
ing its members into more friendly and social intercourse with each other, 
not only in business, but in all matters relating to each other's welfare." 

The meeting was held in Brazillian Hall on Broadway, was called to 
order by Mr. Charles H. Sanborn, and Mr. j. K. Whitaker was elected 
temporary chairman, and Mr. C H. Sanborn secretary. Mr. Whitaker 
then announced the object of the meeting, and subsecjuently the following 
officers were elected for the year iS,S5: Selwin Z. Bowman, president; 
Charles H. Sanborn, vice-president : ]. V. Kennard, secretary and treasurer ; 
C. H. Sanborn, J. E. Whitaker, H. F. Woods. 1). C. Stillson and J. H. 
W'oodbury. directors. 

It was voted that the organization shall be known as the Winter Hill 
Club, and that it shall be located in the building then being erected by the 
Odd Fellows' Building Association, at the corner of Broadway and Marshall 
street. 

Since its organization the Club has kept on in the even tenor of its way, 
making its headquarters in Odd Fellows' Building, and holding its regular 
meetings on the first Saturday of each month. The following is a list of its 
officers for the year 1896: Fred. Preston, president ; E. N. Simonds, vice- 
president; J. F. Kennard, secretary and treasurer; D. C. Theall, M. C. 
Wildes, C. Everett Clark, F. A. Woodbury and Byron Fames, directors. 



CHARITABLE AND OTHER SOCIETIES. 

];V MAUV A. IIALEV. 



THE CHARIT\' CLUB. 

Ix the year 1S76 the Somerville Relief Bureau was formed, and it met 
every week in the hall of the Police Building on Bow street. The members 
furnished materials for sewing, cut out garments, and taught the applicants 
how to make them, paying for their labor in money or in clothing. This 
Bureau was afterwards associated with the Charity Club. 

The Charity Club was organized in i.S;;, and legally incorporated the 
following year. The first meeting was held at the house of Mrs. M.T. Hol- 
lander, Boston street ; Mr. Henry F. Woods was chosen president. \'arious 
means were used to raise money, the most notable of which were a Dickens 
Carnival and a great fair. The fair was held in December, 1S7S, and was 




Mahy a. Hali:v 



SOMERVILLE, J'AST AND PRESENT. 43:; 

one of the most brilliant occasions of the period. U'he fair was opened by 
Mayor Bruce, who was followed by Selwyn Z. Bowman and other speakers 
There was an orchestral concert each evening. Each day a brilliant com- 
pany gathered there from all parts of the city. A paper was published in 
connection with it which contains literary gems well worthy of preservation 
'J'his fair secured for the Charity Club, in addition to money from its pre- 
paratory entertainments, a sum of not less than two thousand eight hundred 
dollars. 

The purpose of the Club as set forth in its charter was " The relief of 
worthy objects of charity, and social improvement, by the distribution of 
money, food, fuel and clothing among indigent people." 

The charter was signed by Louis P. Hollander, }. Frank Wellington 
Charles S. Lincoln, Rufus B. Stickney, Henry H. Barber, John Ha^skell 
Butler, George A. Bruce, and many others. Charles S. Lincoln was the first 
president under the charter. Nineteen directors were also chosen. The 
city was divided into districts, each director was appointed over a district 
and had a resident committee under him, who were responsible to him for 
the expenditure of money. 

The meetings were held every month at the different residences in the 
city, and after the business was transacted, an agreeable entertainment was 
provided, and sometimes a lecturer was invited from Boston to speak on 
"Charities." Besides the regular meetings, a series of entertainments was 
given for several winters : social parties, a mock trial, and dramatic enter- 
tainments, at which substantial sums of money were secured. The dis- 
l)ursements up to 1883, amounted to nearly four thousand dollars. 

The history of the Charity Club is a very important one in the annals 
of the city. It differed from other organizations, from the fact that it drew 
Its members from all parts of the city, and thus an agreeable social harmony 
was brought about, so desirable in such a scattered community. 

In 1883, the funds of the Club had become somewhat exhausted; the 
condition of the country had improved ; and there was less demand on the 
part of the poor for assistance. The officers of the Relief Bureau resigned 
with the intention of changing the basis of their work, and interest in the 
Club declined. The Club existed for some years longer, but shared the 
fate of other organizations in the gradual decrease of attendance at its 
meetings, and finally it ceased to meet. At present it holds some funds 
which it uses at its discretion. 

THE CONVERSATION CLUB. 

In 1868 a very pleasant club was started on Spring Hill. It met 
weekly at the houses of the members on .Spring Hill and on Winter Hill. 
The time was mainly devoted to the discussion of current topics, literature 
and symbolism. Its members included the representative people on both 
hills, such as the Rev. and Mrs. Charles Lowe, Mr. and Mrs. Charles S. 
Lincoln, Mr. and Mrs. Francis H. Raymond, Mr. and Mrs. S. Foster Damon,' 



43'"> soM/:h'i7/./j:. /'.IS/- .i.v/) /'/:/iS/:.v/\ 

Mr. and Mrs. Georj;c \\ . 1 )urell, Mr. ami Mrs. j. Frank Jjrown, .Mr. and 
-Mrs. JohnG. Hall, and many others. 

The death of one of tlie members in 1S74 was so sudden and so i;reat an 
atlliction. that no nieetini;" of the Club was ever held afterwards. 

riiK soMKKXii.i.K Lrn:R.\K\ ASSOCIAIK >.\. 

In is()j an association tor mutual pleasure and profit was formed in 
Kast Somerville. In anticipation of its far-reachinj;" effects, and the y^ood 
that mi_i;ht revert to the members, it was called the " Boomerang." As the 
("lub increased in size, and had representatives in all parts of the city, a 
more conservative name seemed necessary, and it was called '• The Somer- 
ville Literary Association.' 

The meetings were held twice a month, and at each meetinga committee 
was appointed to prepare a program for subsequent meetings. The pro- 
gram was always interesting, consisting of music, witticisms, the dis- 
cussion of new books, and a paper on some important topic of the day. 
There was never a dull moment. The years work was concluded with a 
dinner in Boston, and a theatrical performance in which the members were 
the actors. 

The president for many years was Thomas I. 1 )elano, Jr. .Among the 
members were .Mr. .\rthur .\. Smith. Miss Alice Cole,]. T. .Meader, George 
S. Littlefield, James L.Tyler. Jr., Dr. (ierry. the .Misses Mary E. Davis, 
Martha Ireland, S. Fannie (ierry, Julia Warden and Helen M. Fdgerly. 
Death and removals from the city gradually diminished its membership, 
and those who remained did not care to continue the Club by the addition 
of new members, and in 1S75 it ceased to e.xist. 

THF Sl'FFRAGE LEAGUK. 

When the Legislature granted the right of voting for the School Com- 
mittee to women, .Mrs. Maria Theresa Hollander and Mrs. Martha Perry 
Lowe organized the •' Woman's F'>ducational I'nion ; "' Mrs. Lowe was its first 
and only president, Mrs. .Martha B. Pitman was the vice-president, and .Miss 
Mary A. Haley the secretary. Its membership numbered more than si.xty 
ladies. The chief object of the Club w-as to advance the cause of woman, 
and assist her in securing the position, as physician, preacher, lawyer, and 
school officer, for which, by training, natural ability and moral character, 
she was best fitted. 

The members were expected to visit the schools in their districts, in 
order to become familiar with their management, and thus be able to \()te 
intelligently for the members of the School Committee. 

It had a prosperous existence for many years, the meetings were held 
monthly, and such speakers as Arthur (iilman of Cambridge, Mrs. Julia K. 
Anagnos, and Dr. Mary Salford, were invited to lecture. 

.A few years ago it joined the State Suffrage I,eague, and the words 
Siiffra}:;e Lca^i^iw formed a part of its name. 

At present Mrs. M. P. Lowe is the honorary president. Mrs. Sarah D. 
Field, acting president, and Mrs. S. A. Davenport, secretary. 



so.}[i-:r]'ille. iwst .ixn i'resknt. 4-^; 

The Municipal Club is an outgrowth of this, and is especially engaged 
.n securing the registration of women, in order that they may vote for Scirool 
Committees. Subjects of current interest relating to art, literature, and the 
household are discussed. Mrs. Afaria F. Hill is the president. 

THE SOCIKT\' OF ST. AINCFNT I)F PAUL. 
The Society of St. \incent de I'aul was founded in l-'aris, in May, 1S33. 
]]ranches of it soon spread over Europe, and at length reached this'coun- 
try. It is composed of a council of directors, consisting of a spiritual 
director, president, vice-presidents and treasurer. It is divided into general 
conferences in and around Boston, of which there are thirtv-four, that are 
organized in the same way, and hold their meetings in the basement of the 
Roman Catholic churches or in the parsonages. 

The great power of this society consists in the fact that it calls into 
service the laymen of the Roman Catholic Church, although the bishops 
and priests are their constant advisers, and give them sympathy and encour- 
agement in the work. Resides their general works of charity, they have a 
special department in Boston for the protection of children, of which Mr. 
Richard Keefe of this city was the agent. His principal business is to find 
homes for abandoned infants and neglected children, to rescue young 
girls from evil lives, and to give friendly assistance to boys brought for the 
first time before the courts. ^I'he office is at Room 36, Charity Building, 
( hardon street, Boston. 

In one year he and his assistant report that they ha\e made 4,000 visits, 
placed in homes 65,^ children, and had 159 boys, who were before the courts 
in Boston, placed on probation. 

Mr. Keefe was the originator of this branch in Somerville about twenty 
years ago, and it is called '' St. Joseph's Conference of St. Vincent de Paul." 
This conference has a membership or working force, composed of twenty- 
three men who meet once a week through the year. 

The twentj'-three members of the older organization are obliged to visit 
poor families once each week. They report to an investigating committee 
of three persons, always composed of the same members, anv case of desti- 
tution which they discover, and this committee then reports back to the con- 
ference if the applicants are worthy. The conference then attends to the 
family. It does not pay any rents, nor give much money directlv, but fur- 
nishes groceries and fuel by giving the poor orders upon the difterent 
dealers in the city. 

Besides ministering to the physical wants of the destitute, the confer- 
ence endeavors to induce the people to attend to their religious duties, and 
often clothes the children in order that they may go to Sunda3-school. It 
IS composed of men of moderate means, who are conscientious and ready to 
give their time to the work. But at each meeting they are expected to make 
a secret contribution of money, small or large, for the poor ; and it is a note- 
worthy fact that the amount raised by these members secretly last year 
was greater than that contributed by any other conference in the diocese. 



43 s so.]//:at//./j:, /'.is/' .i.y/> /•/:/■ s/:x/'. 

'I"he value of these conferences, however, is not estimated l)y the amount of 
money raised, but by the faithfulness of the members in attending; the 
ineetinjjs and makinjr their weekly visits. Outside of these working mem- 
bers is a list of subscribing members, among those men who are more 
wealthy, and who make a liberal annual donation, although they have not 
time to attend to the work. .Some money is raised by collections in the 
church, but the svstem of obtaining funds by entertainments has been 
abandoned, as it developed some features which made it seem objectionable 
to their spiritual advisers. 

The conference of late years pays more attention to the special work 
which we' have already recorded as being done in Boston, that is. the care 
of abandoned and neglected children, and boys arrested for a first offense. 
The society makes no distinctions in race, creed or color. 

rill. i.iri'i.K .SLSTKKS oi' riiK rooR. 

This institution has existed in Scmerville about two years. It is a 
branch of the great society of the same name founded in Europe, and gradu- 
ally extending to this country. The building faces on Highland avenue, 
and receives aged people of both se.xes without respect to their religious 
opinions or any requirement of money. The home is governed by a mother 
superior and sisters, who collect their funds from door to door in the city, 
and are also assisted by donations and legacies from time to time. About 
fifty persons can be accommodated in the building. Religious services are 
held every day, but Protestants are not obliged to go to mass. 

The dining room is large and comfortable, and the pleasant ample 
grounds will be further improved when the necessary funds are obtained 
for it. The inmates are allowed to see their friends on Sunday, and the 
sisters are happy on that day to receive any visitors who are inclined to call 
upon them and see the working of the institution. 

THE FRll.Xni.N' HELPERS of Till', POOR. 

Many members of the charity club became convinced that the practice 
of giving money was attended with dangers to the self-respect of the poor, 
and after the dissolution of the labor bureau, which required a good deal of 
capital for the purchase of cloth for its work, the above organization was 
formed. 

It consisted of about a dozen young ladies who met once a week, on 
Thursdays, at the overseer's room in the Police Building, to receive poor 
women who wished opportunities to do washing and house-cleaning, and 
to confer with gentlemen and ladies who desire such help, thus bring- 
ing about a wdiolesome unity of action between employer and employed. 
Besides giving work to these women, the Eriendly Helpers collected clothing 
for the children, and in cases of sickness they visited the families, with 
alleviation for the sufferers. 



REMINISCENCES OF SOMERVILLE. 



BY MARTHA I'KRKV L()WK. 



I uwF. been asked to give some reminiscences of the early clays of 
Somerville. My memory only goes back to the year i<S59, in which \-ear 
my husband received a call to the Parish of the First Congregational (I'ni- 
tarian) Society of Somerville. It was difficult to find a satisfactory house, 
and as everyone said that real estate was a safe investment here, we pur- 
chased a lot of land at what we called the "jumping off " point of Summer 
street, and built a house adjoining a large open pasture. While the house 
was building, v.e spent two nights in the neighborhood. I'he first night, 
strange to say, at the McLean A.sylum, with our beloved friends, Mr. and 
Mrs. Columbus Tyler. We had a delightful time, and enjoyed walking in 
the ample grounds, and hearing the birds sing in the noble elm-trees, all 
planted under the supervision of Mr. Tyler. I cannot think without pain 
of the destruction of those beautiful grounds and trees, in order to give 
room for unsightly railroad freight-houses, and am cjuite sure that those 
who come after us will blame us 
for sacrificing such a spot to the 
demands of business, when so much 
is being done now to provide breath- 
ing spaces for the multitudes in our 
cities. If Cambridge would unite 
with us in securing the property, we 
might bequeath a valuable gift to 
posterity. 

We were very much pleased 
with the rural aspect of the town. ^ — -*- 

( )ur second \isit was at the hospi- 
table home of Mr. John S. Edgerly 

on Winter Hill, who lived in the % 

dignified house once occupied by ; 

Edward Everett. It was then a 
square, substantial colonial house, 
but has undergone considerable 
alteration. The land was all more 
or less open between Summer street 
and Highland avenue ; and the 

earthworks of our Revolutionary martha perry lowe. 

Fathers were still seen, and the crows even were cawing in the tall elms 
scattered about on the hillsides. As the population began to crowd upon 

439 




<f^ 



44.. soMi:R\ii.i.i:. iwsr .\xn rRi:si:xr. 

us. we bouglil land from time lo time to protect ourselves ami tiu- street, 
nnd i^aslured our cows and our neighbors' cows in tiie field whic h was tiie 
resort of all the children around us. and often a playground for the boys in 
their ball j,Mmes. We had only a line of omnibuses in our neighborhood 
as a conveyance to ISoston. and I well remember that one day, in coming 
out. a teamster grazed the wheel of our omnilnis. and our driver stopped 
his horses, jumped off the box, pulled him off his seat to the ground 
and pummeled him until the blood ran. while the passengers sat waiting 
inside. .Some of us left our seats and said we would have the omnibus 
driver arrested, l)ut it was in the days of incendiaries, and we were 
afraid he might set fne to our houses, and so we let the matter rest — so 

much for law and order at that period. 
( )ur fa\ orite walks were at \or- 
ton's Woods — where the anemones 
. grew in abundance, and the grounds 

^ were not entirely fenced in, until 

" rough boys abused the privilege — 

u ^L and at I 'oily .Swamp. Mere fathers 

tL ■'^^X '^"^ mothers with their children 

^> ft , '"^{^^^^ were often walking Sundays, and 

5K|a£^ "^^^^^ wild violets and jacks-in-the-pulpit 

Y''^># and many other flowers grew there. 

■^ ""\. The place is now almost entirely 

^ ,- built over, but some of the pro- 

prietors have had the good taste 
to save the tall trees in their neigh- 

, borhood from the hand of the con- 

V'i?**', ^1^ tractor and builder. I ought also 

to have mentioned the old jaques 
place, leading from liroadway to- 
wards the brick-yards. J'he house 
was large, in the colonial style, and 
uu,. ,u.,.,t:c ,-^,.L- full of old memories, redolent of co- 

KhV . (.HAkLh.S LOW fc. ■ 

lonial hospitality. .\ short walk from 
there were seen the okl convent grounds and buildings rudely destroyed by 
ruffians in one of those freaks of religious fanaticism worthy of the days of 
St. Hartholomew. 'I'his ha]Dpened some years before 1 came to Somerville. 
but it was a sad pleasure to walk among those deserted grounds with relics 
of cultivation and beauty around, which reminded us of the deserted mon- 
astery grounds of i'ort Koyal in I'rance. One of the most attractive old 
houses was that of ( )liver iufts, on Sycamore street, which had been in 
that family for generations. It was a pleasure to see him there with his 
gentle invalid wife, who kept up the nice old-fashioned housekeeping. \\'e 
bought our hay of him, and always invited him to come into the house. 
.\lthough he often wore his long blue farmer's frock, he had the manners of 
a gentleman : usinir the most ele<rant lan<rua<re. and conversing: well on a 



SOMERllLLE. PAST AXP PRESEXT. 441 

variety of topics. Another member of the Tufts family, probably a distant 
relative, was Nathan Tufts, who lived at the corner of Medford and Washing- 
ton streets, and was identitied with the early history of the town. He was a 
man of decided opinions. Christian convictions, and of sterling character. 
He once remarked in his old age that he was almost impatient to "go into 
the next world and see what there was on the other side," showing a per- 
fect faith in immortality, not so common nowadays. It is a satisfaction to 
see his place well kept up, and occupied by two of his children. 

Robert A'inal was another early resident here, a constant supporter of 
the institutions of religion, and of every good cause, which spirit he has be- 
queathed to his descendants. The old Spring Place was long a noted fea- 
ture in what was called Milk Row, now Somerville avenue. We have always 
regretted that the name was changed. The Spring Place stood high from 
the street, with extensive grounds, and large trees. We took tea there once 
or twice, and were much impressed with the size and attractiveness of the 
old-fashioned low-studded rooms, especially the large square parlor. Mr. A. 
C. Spring did an extensive business in Boston ; and yet when he came home 
from New Vork, early Sunday mornings, his wife said she could not prevail 
upon him to rest. He would always insist upon going to church. Jonathan 
lirown, of Winter Hill, is one of our oldest and most esteemed citizens. 
His great age and the preservation of his faculties show that he is a man 
who keeps his intellect sharpened by the study of literature and the progress 
of science, and his moral nature, stimulated by a sympathy with all good 
causes, can never grow old. Cutler Downer, who had a handsome residence 
on Central street, was much beloved by his neighbors and friends. He did 
an immense business in Boston, and was pronounced by one who knew him 
well one of the most " absolutely honest brokers he had ever known." 
Rufus B. Stickney's elegant home on the next street was always given to 
hospitalit}-, and the pretty cottage of the venerable John Boles, at the top of 
ISroadway, was a pleasant feature of the landscape. Although he was a man 
of wealth, he preferred it to the most stately mansion. It had a very fine 
view from its piazza, and was always kept in exquisite order. He amused 
himself in his old age by making beautiful inlaid boxes of the finest wood, 
which he presented to his friends. His only fear was, that the city would 
dig down the green embankment which fronted his house, in order to widen 
the street. The change was never made, although the house has been en- 
larged by his son-in-law. His widow for many years resided there, with only 
a companion, but her religious faith and courage cheered her loneliness, and 
she was often visited by her children and her neighbors. Deacon Charles 
Foster occupied the fine old house on Broadway, built somewhat in the 
(Grecian style, with large columns to support the piazza. He had been for- 
merly a member of the parish of the distinguished Dr. George E. Ellis, of 
Charlestown, and brought all his spirit of faithfulness and consecration to 
his adopted church. This house has since been mo\ed to a dift'erent situa- 
tion. 

On Spring Hill there were Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Pitman, who occupied 



44- SOMl:Rl/LI.I:. PAST .WH I'KJ.SI-.Xr. 

the estate left to Ikt by her hrotht-r. Mr. Minot. who presented a tine l)ell 
to the I'nitarian (liiirch. Mrs. TituKin was a Swedenborgian. and an in- 
timate friend of the poet W'hiltier. and one of the earl)' anti-slavery leaders. 
Mr. I'itnian was a tjenial, culti\ated man, and their home was a i^atherin*;- 
place for some of the most notable people in New Kni^land. Just across the 
way was the l>rackett family in Chestnut court. The father, mother and 
children were all devoted to intellectual and philanthropic pursuits. The 
parents are not livinj;', but the son and dauLjhters. althouj:;^h no longer in 
.Sonier\ ille. are among the first educators in the countr}-. Major Brastcnv 
was a striking personality, always hospitable, ready to oblige a friend, one 
who loved to joke about his experiences in the war, and tell how he ''gradu- 
ated at l)ull Run." Mr. Samuel T. Frost was a genial neighbor, often seen 
working in his garden, which was a little compensation to him for the loss 
of the old gable-roofed colonial house and est.ite not far off, owned by his 
father, and often the headquarters of Washington in this vicinity. Father 
Durell's pleasant face was often seen on the street. Dr. Luther \'. licll. 
o{ the asylum, lost his life from exposure as an army surgeon. He was 
much esteemed, as was also his assistant. Dr. liooth, who married Miss 
Tufts, now .Mrs. 15. F. Allen. He was a man of genius and of cheerful re- 
ligious philosophy, so said Dr. Howditch ; and the story is told of him, that 
when he was at the point of death, his mother said to him : " My son, have 
you made your peace with God.' ' ■' Mother," he answered, " I never had 
any quarrel with («od.'' 

Many pleasant reminiscences I might also record of Lebbeus Stet- 
son, clerk of the court for many years: John (I. Hall, well known for his 
business integrity and wide intelligence : Major Allen, an early and promi- 
nent figure on the streets of Spring Hill : and Charles K. (Oilman, town and 
city clerk for many years. 

.Among women of note were Mrs. .Sarah .Munro, prominent in all good 
works, Mrs. Columbus Tyler, the Mary who '• had a little lamb," a mother 
in Israel. Mrs. .Maria Theresa Hollander, a lady of extraordinary executive 
ability and progressive thought, and Mrs. C. .\. Skinner, remarkable for the 
vigor of her mind, her devout faith, and her efforts for the cause of woman 
at Tufts College. Mrs. F. M. Everett, too early called away, was a valuable 
ofiicer of the W. C. T. I'., and also a superior worker in the religious train- 
ing of the young. Many fine school-teachers have retired here from their 
labors, whose names we would be glad to mention if our space permitted. 
Several persons of eminence have lived here for short intervals: D. .\. 
W'asson, philosopher and poet, G. Stanley Hall, educator, and others; but 
we have already exceeded our limits, and must leave the past of Somerville, 
with good hopes for its future. There are doubtless many esteemed families 
of the old days which i have not mentioned, for the reason that in conse- 
quence of the people of the town being scattered they did not come under 
my observation, but these deficiencies will. I trust, be iiuuleup by other con- 
tributors to this volume. 



HOME CIRCLE. 

IJY GEORGE E VINCEX 1'. 



\VASHIN(;T0N COUXCIL, No. <;. 

( )F the four councils of the Home Circle in Somerville, Washington 
No. 9 is the oldest. It was instituted in Pythian Hall, Union square, on 
the evening of February 21, iSSo, by the supreme leader, Henry Damon, 
and had thirty-two charter members. Stillman H. Libby was the first leader, 
and under his administration the council was auspiciously established, and 
it has continued prosperous to the present time. 

The Home Circle, as is well known, is a fraternal beneficiary order, and 
while its beneficial feature is the more prominent, yet the spirit of fraternity 
and good-fellowship is active among its members, and a fruitful source of 
pleasure and profit. The manifestation of this fraternal spirit is not limited, 
by Washington Council, within its own membership or the membership of 
the order, but is extended in works of charity as opportunity offers. 

The ladies of the council have organized a sewing circle, which meets 
at the homes of its members, the gentlemen being entertained at supper and 
by games of cards in the evening. Many of the products of this society 
are supplied to families in need, while others are disposed of by sale, and 
the proceeds applied as the society may deem advisable ; the Somerville 
Hospital and the Day Nursery being among those that have been remem- 
bered. 

The council participated in both of the hospital fairs, the receipts from 
the tables being augmented by donation from the council funds. 

Sociability has been promoted by excursions, and by card-parties and 
entertainments in connection with the meetings of the council. A very suc- 
cessful series of dancmg parties, extending through several winters, has 
also been conducted. While the object of these parties has been simply to 
provide a pleasant evening for the members of the council, their children 
and friends, yet the financial result has been the accumulation of a sub- 
stantial sum, which has been invested by the trustees. It may also be said, 
in passing, that the council is in easy financial circumstances. 

Washington Council has lost, by death, five of its members, the benefi- 
ciaries of whom were promptly paid the full amounts of their benefit certi- 
ficates, which ranged from one thousand to five thousand dollars. 

The council has continued as tenants of the Knights of Pythias since 
its institution; but in the fall of 1S95 the hall which that order had oc- 
cupied in l^nion square was taken for business purposes, and the old ( )dd 
Fellows Hall, at No. 45 Union square, over Hotel Warren, was leased by 
the Knights, and became Pythian Hall ; Washington Council meeting there- 
in for the first time December 12, 1895. The apartments are among the 
most spacious and convenient society rooms to be found in the State. 

The meetings of the council are held on the second and fourth Thurs- 

443 



444 somi:r\'ii.i.i:. r.isr .\xn i'Ri:si:.\r. 

day evenings of v\<-r\ inr.iuli at eight o'clock, and all nicnibcis of the order 
are welcome. 

It is hardl\ necessary to present* the merits of fraternal beneficiary 
orders, it is well known that they place within the reach of all a moderate 
amount of life insurance at cost ; enabling people of limited income to make 
]>rovision for dependent relatives. The Home Circle is among the younger 
of these orders, but it ranks with the best, is progressive, and pays all obliga- 
tions promptly. 

llAkMOW (Ol NCII,. No. 43. 

Wcdnesda}' evening. March S. iS,S2. thirty-four ladies and gentlemen of 
\\ inter 1 1 ill. having petitioned the supreme council of the Home Circle for a 
ciiarter, met at Fraternity Hall, and organized a council of the Home Circle, 
the supreme leader. Julius M. Swain, now supreme secretary of the order, 
occupying the chair. Messrs. 15. P. Lovejoy, Edwin Taylor and J- F. Kennard 
presented the name of Harmony Council, Xo. 43. which was accepted. 

'J'he following officers were elected and installed: leader, 1!. 1'. Love- 
joy; vice-leader, Mrs. M. .\. Kennard; instructor, Mrs. A. S. 1 arrar ; past 
leader. Fred 1'. Orcutt; secretary, C. H. Colgate; financier, C. W. (iulliver; 
treasurer. |. 1'. Kennard; guide, S. M. Craig; warden, Mrs. E. S. Lovejoy: 
sentinel. C. K. Simpson: trustees, F. L. \\'alker, Edwin Taylor, A. P. 
(iriffin. 

Harmony Council has met now for several }ears, on the second and 
fourth Wednesdays of the month, in the beautiful lodge-rooms of ( )dd Fel- 
lows Hall. The council is in a prosperous condition, with 1 13 members and 
reserve funds in the bank. It has paid out in death benefits over thirty 
thousand dollars. 

The officers in charge for 1S96 are as follows : leader. Mrs. Annie L. 
Elliott: vice-leader, Mrs. Amelia A. Davis: instructor, Mrs. ]\L Ella Durell ; 
past leader, Mrs. John L. Potter; secretary, Miss Abbie F. Gage; financier, 
Mrs. Mary R. Hamlet; treasurer, F^. Edward Mansfield; guide, Ernest S. 
lirth; warden, Mrs. Emma G. Smith; sentinel, John L. Potter; trustees, 
J. A. Durell. l',. (\. Davis. J. !■. Kennard. 

S()M1-,K\ ILLF col XCIL. Xo. 103. 

This council was instituted July 7, 18S6, at the residence of Hon. J. 
Flaskell Putler, on Pearl street. Thirty-three members were present, and 
they organized by electing Fkrbert E. Merrill, leader : and Dr. Sanford 
Flanscom. past leader. 

(Quarters were secured in Arcanum Ilall, on the corner of Proadway 
and Franklin street, and its meetings are still held there. It has been ver\ 
successful, both as regards increase in membership, which has reached 226 
and is the largest of any council in the order in this State, and in fraternal 
feeling, no differences of any nature having arisen among its members. 

The leaders have been as follows : H. E. Merrill, Mrs. Mary E. Dustin, 
Mrs. Martha I!. Clark, J. Foster Clark, A. li. l.ibby, C. 1', IJattelle, E. \V. 
Southworth. ' I. Cnderhill, and Mrs. P. P. Liscomb. the present leader. 



LOYAL ORANGE LNSTITUTION. 

BY F. (). I. TARBOX. W. M. 



Ml'. HORKB LODGE, No. n;. 

This lodge was founded in Cambridgeport, April lo, iSyi.with a mem- 
bership composed chierty of residents of Arlington and Somerville. it was 
located in Cambridge, with the expectation that a large membership would 
soon be obtained in that city, but the anticipations were not realized, and 
the lodge struggled on until November 21, 1S74, when it was removed to 
Arlington. It remained in that town nearly thirteen years, when it was 
moved to Somerville, and located in J'emplar Hall, on Summer street. ( )n 
November 30, iScji, it changed its quarters to Pythian Hall, L'uion square, 
and when that hall was transferred to Hotel Warren, the lodge was again 
moved to Pythian Hall, where it is now located. 

I'homas Pratt of Arlington was the hrst W. M., and following him 
have been eighteen others in the same office, among whom were a number 
of our prominent citizens. 

Mt. Horeb is the parent of three other lodges, and it still holds a large 
and increasing membership ; in fact, the increase durmg the past year has 
been phenomenal, and the indications are that there will be but slight cessa- 
tion for admission for some time to come. Every person to be eligible to 
membership in the Orange Institution of the Tnited States must be a firm 
believer in the Holy Bible and an American citizen, and those who have 
been members are expected to always recognize that bond of universal 
brotherhood and the tenets of the order : Justice, truth and righteousness 
to all God's creatures, to help the weak and infirm, to care for the sick and 
dying, and to maintain the liberties of the people and the freedom of our 
institutions even unto death. 

Mt. Horeb Lodge meets on the first and third Wednesday evenings of 
each month. Its officers for the current year are : K. O. J. Tarbox, W. M. ; 
C. 1). Lowery, I). M. : Rev. Win. H. Lannin, chaplain; Samuel D. Bond, 
1). of C. ; W'm. Taylor, recording secretary ; Thomas Henderson, financial 
secretary; Samuel L. Morrison, treasurer; Herbert Bennett, in-tiler; W'm. 
Hamilton, out-tiler. 

There are many other associations and clubs in Somerville in addition 
to those already treated of, the most important of which are the W'onoha- 
quaham Tribe No. 69, I. O. of Red Men, Knights of Columbus, several 
lodges of Knights of Honor, lodges of N. E. Order of Protection, Order of 
the Eastern Star, several temperance organizations, United Order of Pilgrim 
h'athers, etc., and it is much to be regretted that their histories have not 
been received for publication in this work. 

445 



BANKS OF SOMKRVILLE. 

By J. U. Il.Whl.N. 

CI I A IT KR XXV. 

Till. l)anks of Sonierville are a source of pride to her citizens. I'hey 
are all young institutions it is true, but they rank with the best in the State 
and enjoy a first-class reputation for shrewd management and careful in- 
vestments. 

For several years the savings bank and two co-operative banks supplied 
the wants of the community to a certain e.xtent, but from time to time the 
advisability of organizing a national bank was discussed. 

With few manufacturing establishments located within her borders, and 
surrounded by cities having old and prosperous national banks, it was 
thought that a similar institution in this city would have a precarious e.vist- 
ence at the best, but .a spirit 'of enterprise finally prevailed, and in August. 
iS<;2, the Somerville National P.ank opened its doors. 

Its usefulness was demonstrated in a very few weeks, and by conserva- 
tive management it has made for itself a good record. 

It started with a capital of 5100,000, and after the first year paid to its 
stockholders 6 per cent per annum on their investment, and has accumu- 
lated a surplus fund, which at the present time amounts to $16,000. 

Mr. Quincy .\. \inal was the first president, and it was largely owing 
to his able efforts in conducting the bank affairs, and to his marked business 
tiualifications. that the institution gained a tnni footing early in its career. 
Mr. \'inal retired in January, 1.S94. 

The management of the bank is now in the hands of the following gen- 
tlemen : |. (). Hayden, president: John A. CJale, vice-president: James I'. 
P.eard, cashier: Allen F. Carpenter, Simon C-onnor, .\. Marcellus Kidder. 
James F. Hathaw;iy, David I). Lord, Walter ( ". Mentzer, Frederick W. 
Parker, .\lbion .\. i'erry, Ceorge O. Proctor. Nathan H. Read, I'Vederic 
W. Stone. J. I- rank Wellington, L. Roger Wentworth, directors. 

The banking rooms are centrally located at No. 5S Cnion square. Stone 
building. 

The Somerville Savings liank was incorporated i''el)ruary 24, 1.SS5, and 
opened for business on the 15th of .\pril the same year. Its first president 
was Oren S. Knapp, Fsq.. who held the olfice until his death in November. 
i.Sijo, and gave much of his time to a watchful care of its interests. lie was 
succeeded by .\lbion A. I'erry, who has since held the position, ably admin- 
istering the trust confided in iiiiii. 
446 







Philip Eberle. 




Silas Harvey Holland. 




J. Warren Bailey 




Oliver H. Perry 



SL\\n-:R]-/r.LE^ past and presext. 451 

The bank has enjoyed continuous prosperity and a constant -rowth of 
busmess. Two weeks after the organization of the bank the total assets 
amounted to 56.259.25. A year later they amounted to $38,974.48. At the 
present time they amount to 56, 1,000. The present number of depositors 

IS 3200. 

The management of the bank is vested in a board of trustees composed 
as follows: president, Albion A. Perry; vice-presidents, Silas H. Holland, 
J. Walter Sanborn; clerk and treasurer, Frederic W. Stone; Geon-e l' 
lia.xter, Charles A. Cushman, Philip Eberle, Horace P. Makechnie, ["wal- 
ter Sanborn, Josiah Q. Bennett, S. Newton Cutler. [. O. Hayden, Marshall 
H. Locke, William A'eazie. 

The banking rooms are at No. si l-'nion square, Stone building. 



The Somerville Co-operative Bank was' chartered May 4. iSSo, and is 
to-day one of the foremost institutions of its kind in the State.' The last re- 
port of its aftairs to the Sa\ings Bank Commissioners showed the assets to 
be 5565,263.55. Thirty-three series of shares have been issued, and the 
earnings have averaged 6 per cent. The number of shareholders, < )ctober 
19, 1S96, was 1,31s. 

The officers of the bank are as follows : president. [. JM'ank Wellino-ton • 
^■lce-presldent, (ieorge \\\ Snow; secretary and treasurer, Franklm ] 
Hamblin; directors, Marshall H. Locke, Benjamin F. Thompson, James F 
Beard, Charles S. Butters, Charles Mills, Cutler C. Crowell, Fred'c. Ayer 
Nathan H. Reed, Ezra F). Souther, Samuel 'W Richards, George A. Kim- 
ball, Herbert \\. Raymond, Miah G. Kenny, William S. Miller, Belvin T 
Wilhston ; auditors, Horace M. Parsons, Howard B. Chase, Otis H Cur- 
rier; attorney, Herbert A. Chapin. 

'Fhe banking rooms are at 59 L^nion square, Stone building. 



The West Somerville Co-operative Bank was chartered November -9 
1.S90, and during the six years it has been in operation it has accumulated 
assets of $157,450, and has never paid less than 6 per cent dividend to its 
shareholders. Thirteen series of shares have been issued. The officers of 
the bank are as follows: president, J. Warren Bailey: vice-president W C 
Mentzer ; secretary and treasurer, (). H. Perry ; directors. A J Stevens 
F. F. Stockwell, L. E. Merry, F. F. Phillips, C. L. Stevens, C. A G Win' 
ther, S. F. Woodbridge, W. A. Muzzey, I). E. Robbins, I F Terry E D 
Lacount, W. A. Snow, E. S. Sparrow, R. S. Wright, G. "w. Bryant- attor- 
ney, I). C. Delano. 

The banking rooms are at 3 Studio building, Davis square, West Som- 
erville. 



INDUSTRIES OF SOMKRX'ILM^. 



C-IIAITI-K XXVI. 

SoMKKVii.i.K is pre-cinincnUy a rcsidenlial city. Its near proximity to 
Boston, its unrivalled means of access by steam railroads and electric lines 
of street railway, its charming diversity of beautiful hills and rolling 
plateaus, and its generally good sanitary conditions have rendered it a 
favorite abiding-place, and as a " city of homes " it ranks among the high- 
est in the Commonwealth. 

it is, however, not alone as a sleeping-place for i'.oston's thousands of 
busv workers that Somerville is distinguished, for it has within its borders 
industries of such considerable importance that it stands tifth in the list of 
the manufacturing cities of the State. These industries are diversified, and 
they cover almost every line of work, and some of them are of very great 
magnitude and financial standing. Among these, and leading the others in 
importance, is the immense establishment of the 

NOKTII I'ACKIXC. AND TROXISION CO. 

The business was established in 1.S33. l)ut the company was not incor- 
porated until January 2, 1S90. 

'Ihe business at this packing-house consists of "' the slaughtering of 
hogs, rendering, curing, packing, jobbing and exporting the product of the 
same, together with the packing of beef and the general distribution of fresh 
and cured meats to all markets of the world." 

The packing-house occupies thirteen acres of land, and the substantial 
brick buildings are equipped with the latest and most approved machinery 
for conducting the business in an economic and systematic manner. 

The main and connecting buildings are six hundred and fifty feet long 
by one hundred and fifty feet wide, and five to nine stories high. In the 
main building on the Medford-street side are situated the packing-house 
ofiices of the company : these offices are spacious, airy and convenient, and 
accommodate a large working force, which consists of superintendent, pay- 
masters, bookkeepers, entry and receiving clerks, auditors, and shipping 
and time clerks. The other buildings consist of engine, boiler, electrical 
and ice-machinery plant, one hundred and ten feet long by one hundred 
feet wide, three stories high, with chimney one hundred and seventy-six 
feet high : blacksmith, wheelwright, and general repair shop, seventy feet 
long, fifty feet wide, three stories high : stable, one hundred and thirty-five 
feet long, eighty feel wide, three stories high : the wholesale and retail 
45- 




Charles A. Cushman. 



MEA'.'/LLE. -V/> PRESENT. 



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Tbe c^Scers of tbe ctKnpanv are : G. t. ?'»ift- Pres. : E_ C 5"»TfL Treas. 
j-r: ?. Henrr >kirtc«i, .\sst. Manager; Cbaries .\- <,'T2>b- 



SOMERV/LLE. PAST AXD FRESEXT. 4=5 

THE FRESH P( "XD ICE COMPAXV. 

Another important indusn^- in this city is that of the Fresh Pond Ice 
CompanT. The business done by this concern is immense, the freight bills 
paid by the company being among the hea^-iest of all that are paid to the 
Fitchburg Railroad. The ice is obtained at Lake Muscatanapus in Brook- 
line. X. H.. where the company has a plant of great magnitude, the immense 
ice-houses, which are eleven in number, having a storage capacit}- of upwards 
of -D.30C tons. The ice is remarkably free from impurities, being considered 
by experts the best that is offered in this vicinit\-. and so careful is the com- 
panv to maintain this purity that it has bought and now controls the entire 
shore of the lake, thus preventing every possible danger of pollution. I p- 
wards of two hundred and fifty men are employed in har\-e5ting the crop, 
and onlv the latest and most approved tools and machiner}- are used. 

The ice is brought from the storage houses in Brookline in special re- 
frigerator cars by the Fitchburg Railroad to the extensive sheds belonging 
to the company, located between Washington street and the railroad, where 
it is loaded on the ice-wagons and distributed to consumers. 

Thirr\--six of these great wagons and eighty horses, the best that can be 
procured, are owned by the company, and from lift\- to seventy-five men are 
employed in the daily distribution of the ice. 

The officers of the company are : Josiah Q. Bennett, president ; 1". S. 
Hittinger. superintendent : and E. A. Davenport, treasurer. 

THE SPRAGUE AXD HATHAWAY COMPAXY. 

The -Sprag-ae and Hathaway Portrait Copying House in West Somer- 
%-ille is an important industrial establishment, one whose products probably 
reach ever\" comer of the ci\'ilized world. 

The business of this company was established in 18-4. by J. F. Hatha- 
way and W, D. Sprague, under the firm name of .Sprague and Hathaway. 
The busmess was originally established in a small way at the comer of 
Beach street and Harrison avenue, Boston. Cheap rents and better light 
were the inducements offered them to remove to West .Somerville. which at 
that time could hardly be called even a thriving settlement. 

After two years Mr. W. D. .Sprague. on account of failing health, was 
obliged to retire from the busmess. and for many years it was under the 
sole control of Mr. J- F. Hathaway, the president of the present corpora- 
tion. Originally located in the wooden building at the comer of Holland 
and Wallace streets, they outgrew the capacity of their quarters, and in 1 8S7 
erected- at a cost of fortj- thousand dollars, the handsome studio building at 
the comer of Da}^ street and Daris square. 

In ii>9o the business had further increased to such an extent that it 
was decided to form a stock company, and in .September of that year the 
Sprague and Hathaway Company was incorporated with a capital of one 
hundred thousand dollars. Another and larger brick and granite building 
was erected at the comer of Day and Herbert streets, and was thoroughly 
equipped with ever}- modern improvement. 




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SOMERIILLE, PAST AXD PRESICXT. 457 



THE UNION GLASS COMPANY. 

Another of the important industries of Somerville is that of the I'nion 
Cihiss Company, whose works are situated on Webster avenue near L^nion 
square. This business was founded originally in 1S54 by Mr. Emery 
Houghton. It was only fairly successful, and in 1S64 Mr. Houghton sold the 
property to the present company, which was nicorporated in that year under 
the title of the Union Cxlass Company. The first year's business was not 
very good, and new capital had to be put into the enterprise. 

It was not until 1870 that the company entered upon an era of prosper- 
ity, one which lasted for about fifteen years. The gentlemen then con- 
nected with the institution were men of great commercial sagacity, and at 
that time the competition of the West was only in its infancy, New England 
still retaining prestige in glass-making. The principal articles of manufac- 
ture were pressed work, chimneys, gas globes, lamps and chemical ware. 

Ky degrees the utility of the company was enhanced by the addition of 
a cutting department, and by its putting upon the market the largest line 
of artistic vases ever produced in America. By dint of perseverance it 
solved the long concealed secret of the \'enetian art of decorating glass with 
gold worked into the metal, not applied as paint upon the exterior, and vases 
of the most delicate workmanship, fully equal to European articles, are now 
manufactured in these works. 

From its glass-cutting department issues choice cut glass that is dis- 
played in the windows of IJoston's largest glass stores. Many of the best 
establishments in the principal states of the Union are supplied in part from 
this factory. 

In 1862 Mr. John Haines brought to the factory the art of silvering 
glass, and the Union Glass Company manufactures and exports the greatest 
number of silvered glass refiectors of any concern in the United States. 

This is the only remaining glass factory in the vicinity of Pjoston, and 
despite the changes which through force of cheaper producing material have 
driven the once fiourishing industries away from the East in the past few 
years, the Union Company has persistently held its own against a great 
competition, by the principle of manufacturing only the very best quality of 
glass. 

In its various departments the company gives employment to about two 
hundred people, and as many of these reside in Somerville, the factory re- 
mains a large contributor to the prosperity of its native town. 

The ofticers of the corporation at the present time are : Mr. Julian de 
Cordova, president; Mr. Lewis Hall, president Lechmere Bank, treasurer ; 
directors : Mr. J.C. Bullard, president East Cambridge National Bank; Mr. 
Herbert Nash, of Boston ; and Mr. W. S. Blake. Melrose. 




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S0MKR17IJ.E, /'.IS'/- .L\/) /Vy'/u\7iX/'. 459 

DKRin- DESK CO.MFAW. 

On januaiy 1. iSSi, (ieor,i;e H. ])erl)\ and Frederick M. Kilmer formed 
a partnership for the purpose of manufacturing office furniture, chieHy roll- 
top desks, beginning in the upper stories of a small building on lieverly 
street, they were soon obliged to enlarge their store premises and manufac- 
turing facilities. Moving their store to 55 C'harlestown street, they hired 
a factor}- in Cambridge. These cjuarters were soon outgrown, and they 
very shortly enlarged their store by the addition of two buildings, taking the 
rent of the entire block of three buildings at 55 Charlestown street. The 
next move was to look about lioston and vicinity for a site for a new factory. 
After careful examination of the different locations they settled upon the lot 
at the corner of Vernon and Central streets in this city, and purchasing a 
strip at the back end of the lot of Warren I'ollard, the\' erected a hve-story 
wooden building. 

In a few years the growth of their lousiness required additional space, 
and they then erected the large two-story brick building, which comprises a 
large part of their present plant. After about eight gears' use this, too, soon 
became somewhat crowded, and believing, in January, 1.S95, that business 
was about to revive generally over the country, they began the erection of 
the present large seven-stor\' brick building on \'ernon street, which, with 
its ec[uipments, has but recently been completed. 

This desk and office-furniture manufacturing plant is now believed to 
be the largest and best equipped factory where office furniture solely is 
made in the country, and perhaps in the world. 

About three years ago the Pond Desk Company went out of business, 
sold their effects to the Derby & Kilmer Desk Company, and shortly the 
company's name was changed to Derby, Kilmer & Pond Desk Conipan}-. 
Last year another desk company known as the Somerville Desk Compan}', 
but located with their factory in Cambridge, and salesroom in Boston, went 
out of business, they also selling their stock to the Derby, Kilmer .S: I'ond 
Desk Company. 

In Ji-ily, 1895, the company's name was changed to Derby Desk Com- 
pany. This company enjoys a reputation the world o\er for fine standard 
desks and office furniture. Its present officers are : George H. Derby, presi- 
dent ; Frederick M. Kilmer, treasurer and secretary; and Edward F. Pond, 
Lreneral manager. 



4^0 SOMI'.Ri/l.l.i:. J'. 1ST IX/) /'/v/:S/-X/: 

I'.KICKM AKINC, 

At one time a consideral)le portion of the town of Somerville was oc- 
cupied by brick-\ ards. and among tiiose who operated them we find the 
names of some of tlie most respected men of tlie town, as for instance: lienj. 
I'arker. Wm. Jaques. Gardner Ring, Albert Kenneson. Mark and lienj. 
Fisk, Kinsley IJros., Benj. Hadley, David Washburn, C hauncey Holt, 
Samuel Littlefield, John and Joseph 1'. Sanborn. Kdmund Cutter and many 
others, nearly twenty in all. l>ut times have changed with the increase in 
population, and to-day the only brick-making plant in Somerville is the one 
operated by Wm. A. Sanborn, whose father and uncle were brick-makers 
before him. 

From the days when the farmers' sons of New Hampshire and Maine 
came to Massachusetts to earn the money that their farms did not supply, 
and made the labor of brick-making respected by their sturdy honesty of 
character, through the transition period of labor by a foreign population, 
the business of brick-making has been so improved that it has l:)ccome al- 
most a science. 

Twenty years ago but little machinery was used, and a much longer 
time was required for the same output than is to-day needed, with the help 
of machinery at almost every stage of the process. 

This brick business, the only existing one in .Somerville, was estab- 
lished by Joseph P. Sanborn about 1S4';. .\t his death, in 1S74, his son 
Wm. .V. Sanborn continued the business near .Nft. Benedict, on Mystic 
avenue, and then, in company with J. W. Hatch, in 1S76, he removed to Ten 
Hills, where he has since continued, Mr. Hatch retiring from the business 
in 1S91. 

Since that year the output from this yard has been nearly two million 
bricks per annum, but clay having become scarce and land more valuable, 
Mr. Sanborn has been compelled to establish a branch \ard in New Hamp- 
shire, the output fvom which has been et|ual to that of the Somerville yard 
for the past year. 

Somerville bricks are known as among the best in the eastern market, 
and. about three years ago, .Mr. Sanborn wishing to mark a certain grade of 
his product, stamped the bricks with the letter S ; this stamp has become 
well known in surrounding cities as well as Somerville, and is recognized as 
a guarantee for a superior grade of bricks. 

.Mr. Sanborn is now filling a contract calling for five hundred thousand 
bricks for the outside of the spacious hotel being built at the corner of 
lioylston and 'Fremont streets, Boston. He also furnished the outside brick 
for the new 'Fremont Muilding in Boston and for the (llines schoolhouse in 
Somer\ille. 




William A. Sanborn. 



4^2 SOMIlRlll.l.i:. /'.IS/- .I.V/> /'A7;.S7;.\V. 

Nil MIDDLESEX lU.EACH. 1)\E AND I'klNI WORKS. 

I his establishment, located on Sonierx ille avenue, was incorporated in 
1S21. A short historical sketch is given of it on page 7S of this volume. 

THE AMERICAN 15RASS 11 Jll-. WORKS 

Is another of the long established manufacturing concerns of the city, it 
having begun operations in 1S54. Its product of seamless brass tubes is 
well known to mechanics, and its output is ver\' large. 

CARPET CLEAMXCr. ETC. 

Probably the largest carpet-cleaning establishment in New F".ngland is 
that of (i. I". 1 1 urn & Co., on JJroadway. East Somerville. Not only is this 
tirm possessed of the largest plant, in point of lloor-space, size of wheel and 
all the accessories that go to make up such an establishment, but it is gen- 
erally conceded. Hurn iv Co. do by far the largest business in this line of 
any establishment in New England. 

Last spring l)rought to the firm a decided increase in facilities, a new 
1 5-horsepo\ver engine having been put in to supplement the huge new- 
boiler which was put in place last fall. 

Carpet cleaning, however, is not all that this tirm does. The repairing 
of furniture, making over of mattresses and renovating of feather beds are 
specialties, and the workmanship is of the very best quality. 



There are many other important manufacturing establishments in Som- 
erville, some of which are of considerable magnitude. The principal of 
these are the cooperage works of the S. Armstrong Company, the W illiams 
Table and Lumber Company, works of the L H. Brown Moulding Company, 
carriage manufacturing establishments of Erank W. Leavitt and William T. 
Henderson, distillery of Daniel E. Chase <S: Co.. extensive works of the 
Somerville Electric Lighting Co., Somerville Iron foundry. New England 
( )il Co., \ew England Dressed Meat and Wool ( O., W est Somerville .Mould- 
ing Mill, a portion of the great plant of |. P. Scjuire iV Co., Cushman Bros. 
iV Co., shade roller manufactory, and the jewelry and noxelty works of 
-M. W. Carr & Co. 

These, with an infinite number of such minor industries as are always 
found in a municipality of the magnitude of Somerville, make a list of very 
considerable importance, and place the city in a prominent position among 
those of the Commonwealth. 



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MISCELLANEOUS. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

l]()SniN AND JNIAINE RAILROAD. STREET RAILWAYS OK SOMERVILLE. — THE ".SoMKKVILLE 

Journal." — The "Somermlle Citizen." — Westvvood Road and its Residences. 

BOSTON \: MAINE RAILROAD. 

The city of Somerville, without the Boston \: Maine Railroad, bisecting 
it and Unking it with the great world without, is simply an unimaginable 
community. The mile posts between this city and Boston, where the great 
transportation system has its principal terminus, are not many, but even 
were that avenue of steam communication, alone, cut off, the effect upon 
the growth and welfare of the smaller city would be simply revolutionary. 

Few of the nearly eight hundred stations on the line of the Boston \: 
Maine bear such an intimate relation to the system, physically and finan- 
cially, as do those that lie within the limits of Somerville. They are no 
fewer than eight in number, and this fact of itself speaks eloquently of the 
extent of the territory covered by the city and the density of its population. 

As might naturally be expected of a wide-awake administration, the 
present management of the railroad has always been willing to meet the 
people of Somerville more than half way in respect to train and station ac- 
commodations, and it can safely be stated that the service now rendered 
the traveling public by the Boston & Maine is fully commensurate with the 
relationship their patronage bears to the passenger-traffic receipts of the 
company. 

Three of the road's important divisions — the Eastern, Western and 
Southern — traverse the city in whole or in part, the Southern Division per- 
forming the heaviest service, trains on the other two divisions stopping at 
East Somerville only. At the latter station as many as ninety-one trains 
stop each week day, going to and coming from Boston, and these, with the 
numerous freight trains that pass and repass in a never-ending procession, 
make this part of Somerville one of the most important railroad centers in 
the country. 

In addition to this enormous through and local passenger and freight 
business, the railroad company is now engaged in creating a new and ex- 
tensive auxiliary freight terminus on the grounds formerly occupied by the 
McLean Asylum, its business having expanded to such immense propor- 
tions that the Boston terminals have become sorely taxed. It may thus be 
said that the Boston & Maine Railroad has practically annexed Somerville to 

465 



466 



soMERi'Ji.i.i:. I'.isT Axn I Ri:si:xi\ 



the city of lloston, despile the declaration of its citizens against that proj- 
ect, as expressed in recent popular votes. 

The immense strides which Somerville has taken in population during 
the past decade is told in the comparative showing of train statistics, as 
well as in the census figures themselves. Taking the years iSc/) and issr) 
as a basis for comparison, it is found that the average number of trains 
stopping at the different Somerville stations is much larger to-day than ten 
years ago. 

The l^rospect liill (formerly Milk Row i and \\ inter Hill stations show 
the highest percentage of increase, and illustrate how popular these places 
have lately become as residential sections. In iSS6 a total of thirty-two 
week-davand nineteen Sunday trains stopped at Prospect Hill. To-day the 
number is eighty-two on week days and thirty-six on Sundays, a total in- 
crease over iS86 of fifty week-day and seventeen Sunday trains. In iSS6 
lifty-nine week-day trains and 23 Sunday trains stopped at Winter Hill. To- 
day the number is ninety-three week-day and forty Sunday trains. 



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WINTER HILL STATION. BOSTON AND MAINE RAILROAD. 



As a possil)ly interesting contribution to this part of Somerville's his- 
tory, covering, as it does, a most significant ten-year period in its municipal 
existence, the following table, showing the train statistics for the time in 
cjuestion, and compiled by the passenger department of the ISoston \- 
Maine, is given : — 



46S 



a7'.i//;a'/ •//././:", j:isT .i.v/i /•a'/:s/:.v/\ 







1896. 






1886. 




From 
Hoston. 

Week Sun- 
days, days. 


To 
Boston 


Total 
From and to. 


From 
1 tost on. 

Week Sun- 
days, days. 


To Total 
Boston. from and to. 




Week Sun- 
days. ^days. 


Week Sun- 
days, days 


Week Sun- Week Sun- 
days, days. days, days 


Kast Somerville (,W. Div.) 
(E. Div.) 

I'rospect Hill 

Winter Hill 

Somerville Junction . . . 


40 20 
37 '4 

41 IS 
47 2' 
40 '7 
26 7 
29 7 
21 10 


SI 24 
32 '5 
41 iS 
46 19 
39 '7 
20 7 
25 7 
22 II 


91 44 

hg 2t) 
S2 3'. 
93 4" 
79 34 
46 14 
54 '4 
43 2' 


36 '5 

32 s 

22 10 

21) 12 

37 '■ 


55 '6 ! y 3< 
47 10 1 79 iS 
23 9 32 19 
30 II 59 23 
3^> '3 73 24 


Somerville Highlands . . 
West Somerville .... 
North Somerville .... 


27 4 
18 7 


24 4 S' S 
17 8 35 IS 



In the period mentioned several of the old stations of the road have 
been replaced by new and modern ones, the most expensive and attractive 
of which are those at Winter Hill and Prospect Hill. 

To the tremendous tjrowth of the Boston \- Maine system itself in 
the ten years in question it is scarcely necessary to refer at len<^th ht-rc. 
The increase in mileage, tiattic and income, partly from natural growth and 
partly because of consolidations with or purchase of connecting roads, is 
almost startling. The Boston .Sc Maine to-day has a total operated mileage 
of upwards of 1,900 miles, carries 35,000,000 passengers and 257,000,000 tons 
of freight annually, earns a gross income of 521,000,000. from which 6,290 
shareholders draw dividends, owns 665 locomotives, and 1,201 passenger 
and I 2,3X4 freight cars, and has a total capital stock and funded debt of 
.S43, 500,000. 



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SOMERIVLLE, /'.IST .LV/> PRESENT. 471 

STREET RAILWAVS IN .S()MER\-ILLE. 

The first instance in Xew England of the transportation of passengers 
m a railway car by horse power was the operation of a track formerly be- 
longmg to the Fitchburg Raih-oad, between Harvard square, Cambridge, and 
Union square, Somerville. A small horse-railroad had been built previously 
in New York City in 1842, which was the first street railway in the world, 
rhe second street railway was the Cambridge Road, between Harvard 
square, Cambridge, and Bowdoin square, Boston, and the first car on that 
road was run in March, 1856. I'he running of cars on the Fitchburg track 
before mentioned had been discontinued prior to that time. 

In 1S54 the Middlesex Railroad Company was chartered, with authority 
to build tracks in Somerville, but did not do so. Consequently, in 1857, the 
Somerville Horse Railroad was formed for that purpose, and its incorpora- 
tors were George ( ). Brastow, Samuel A. Snow and Isaac F. Shepard. The 
first track built under this charter ran from l^nion square to the Charles- 
town line, and was leased to the Middlesex Road. 

In 1863 the Legislature authorized the Somerville Road to extend its 
tracks to West Somerville and through Bridge street to Cambridge street. 
East Cambridge, and these last-named tracks were leased to the Cambridge 
Road. The Middlesex Road meanwhile had extended its lines through the 
Winter Hill district to Medford ; and about 1880 the Charles River Railway 
built a track beginning at Summer street, Somerville, and extending 
through Cambridgeport into Boston, and also a track on lieacon stree't 
extending to North avenue, Cambridge. This was the total of the street 
railway tracks operated in Somerville in 1887 (aggregating about six and 
one-half miles) at the time of the West End Street Railway consolidation, 
and all were operated by horse-power. 

All this in the year 1896 is greatly changed. The amount of track 
operated in Somerville is more than doubled, and the following statistics 
will give some indication of the development of the street railway business 
in that city. In 1888 twenty-eight different lines started in Somerville, and 
four lines passed through portions of the city. The average length of the 
round trip was 9.015 miles. The total number of car luiles run was i,927,./,8, 
and the number of passengers carried was 12,944,494. 

In the year 1S96 the number of lines starting from Somerville was 
thirty-seven, and the lines passing through Somerville, six. The average 
length of the round trip was increased to nearly eleven miles, an increase 
of i7>4^ per cent. The car miles run were 2,798,239 — an increase of 41 
per cent, — and the number of passengers carried was 20,890,798. The in- 
creased accommodation for passengers in car space was much greater than 
is shown above, since all the lines in Somerville are now electric lines, and 
the electric car is 50 per cent larger than the horse car. 

The mileage and number of passengers above given include the whole 
trip, large parts of which are in Boston or other places, and there is no 
wa}- of determining how much is strictly Somerville business ; but the fig- 



47 J SOMEA'l //././■:. /'.IST .I.V/> /'AV-VAA'y. 

iiies given will show approximately the ratio of increase, 'i'he figures of 
ten years ago. before the consolidation, cannot be obtained : but it is safe 
to say that the business has doubled within the last ten years, and accom- 
modations have much more than doubled. The fares on the different lines, 
notwithstanding the great distances traveled (which are about three miles 
per round trip greater than the average on the roadi, are tive cents, and in 
addition there are free-transfer privileges as follows : — 

In (harlestown, Somerville passengers can be transferred without 
charge to Everett. Maiden and Medford. At Dudley street, in Roxbury. 
free transfers can be had to .Milton, i'ranklin I'ark, Dorchester. Forest 
Hills or South Boston ; and Somerville passengers crossing C'raigie or West 
lioston bridges can there obtain free transfers to all connecting cars run- 
ning into Boston : and by means of an eight-cent check Somerville people 
can be carried by two rides to any of the suburbs to which the cars of the 
West End Street Railway run. 

Thus Somerville has perha]:)S the best street railway facilities of any 
suburb of Boston, and to this fact is largely to be attributed the phenomenal 
increase of that city in population and importance. I'he company's real 
estate in Somerville is taxed for S249.,Soo. The three principal car stations 
will accommodate two hundred and forty-two large electric cars; and pic- 
tures accompanying this sketch show one of the car-houses and the style of 
car now in use. 





SOMERVILLE JOURNAL BUILDING. 




J. O. H.\VD1:N. 



S0MER17LLE, J'. 1ST AXJ) PKESENT. 475 

" S( JMERVILLE JOTRXAL/' 

Of all the strictly local papers of the country, the " Somerville Journal" 
stands among the first, — in the quantity and quality of the news which it 
prints, in its editorial tone, in the neatness of its appearance, and in its 
financial standing. Through constant efforts to please its readers, and to 
keep abreast or ahead of the times, the "Journal" has won its wa}- to wide 
popularity. Its familiar heading, with the old Powder House in the center, 
is known to all the inhabitants. 

The first issue of the paper appeared December <S, 1.S70, and it was then 
published by W. A. Greenough & Co., the directory makers. During the 
next few years the paper changed hands several times, till October 20, 1876, 
when it came into the control of the present proprietors. Among its earh' 
owners were Col. Russell H. Conwell, then a resident of Somerville. but 
now the great Philadelphia clergyman, and John A. Cummings, who after- 
ward became mayor of the city. With the change of ownership in October, 
1876, came many improvements. A new press was bought, and the paper, 
which had previously been printed in Poston, had all its work done in 
.Somerville, in an otfice on the third fioor of the Hill Puilding in L'nion 
square. Here it remained, steadily growing and requiring more room, till 
in July, i8<;4. it moved into the handsome new building of its own on Wal- 
nut street. The establishment is controlled by the Somerville Journal 
Company, of which J. O. Hayden is the manager. 

Started, as the "Journal " was, at a time when Somerville was changing 
rapidly from a country town into a populous and thriving city, the paper 
has, naturally, had an infiuence in Somerville's development, pointing out 
and advocating through its editorial or news columns public needs, and 
otherwise using its infiuence for the good of the city. Many of the most 
useful public improvements that have been made during the past twenty- 
five years had their beginning through a suggestion in the " Journrtl." Be- 
sides its regular staff of writers, the "Journal " has been especially fortunate 
in the number of occasional correspondents, who by their contributions of 
poems or of special articles have added greatly to the interest and life of 
its columns, 'llie " Pencilling" column has been one of its most popular 
features, quotations from which are made every week by the leading papers 
throughout the Ignited States and in foreign countries. Another depart- 
ment which has appealed to many readers is its excellent woman's page. 

The "Journal's" equipment is one of the most extensive in New Eng- 
land, outside of Boston. Occupying three fioors of a large brick building, 
it has all the appliances necessary for carrying on a great newspaper and 
job printing establishment, including three large fast-running presses, four 
job presses, together with folding, cutting and mailing machines, two Mer- 
genthaler linotype machines (the "Journal " being one of the first suburban 
papers to use them), and tons of type of all kinds. Altogether the "Journal " 
employs a force of nearly fifty hands. Such papers or magazines as the 
Journal of Education, the American Primary Teacher, the Writer, and 
others, are regularly printed at the "Journal" office. 




WiLLiA.w Prlble Jones. 



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VVlLLlA.W E. BK1ij11AA\. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 479 

THE "SOMERVILLE cniZEN." 

The " Somerville C^itizen," one of the standard institutions of the city, is 
a representative of the highest type of the weekly local newspaper. It was 
established in August, i SSS, in response to a natural demand for a newspaper 
on the northern slope of the cit>-. and has for several years been comfort- 
ably domiciled in the pretentious Citizen Jiuilding in (Jilman square, which 
is almost exactly in the center of the city. A. M. Dridgman was its original 
manager, and has since been succeeded by Erank H. Hardison, Edgar Perry 
and \\'illiam E. Brigham, at present its able head, who took charge in 
December, 1S94. The Citizen Publishing Company, composed of men of 
the highest character and standing, owned the paper until June, i8c;6,when 
greatly increased business made a reorganization advisable, and the Somer- 
ville Citizen Company, m which several of the old stockholders remained 
and many new ones entered, bought the property and materially augmented 
the plant. The " Citizen '" now has one of the finest printing offices in the 
State, from which are issued the "Somerville Citizen," a weekly paper 
which easily stands in the front rank in the matter of make-up, several 
smaller periodicals and a general line of job work of the best class. The 
office is equipped with four efficient presses and all other machinery and 
material necessary to the carrying on of a modern printing business. 

As a newspaper, whether considered editorially or as a purveyor of 
news, the "Citizen" stands high, as is proven by its general circulation 
among the leading families of the city. It is conducted with a single eye to 
the best interests of the city of Somerville, and it is outspoken upon matters 
of public concern. Cnder its comparatively new management its business 
and its popularity have grown steadily, and its influence, always consider- 
able, has increased to the point of actual power. Improvements in plant, 
staff and service are continually being made, and it is the confident opinion 
of its numerous friends that the " Citizen " is destined within a very short 
time to become one of the exceptional newspaper successes of the State. 

The "Citizen Building" so called was built in the summer of 1S90, by 
the present owners, Messrs. J. E. A. Mulliken and Geo. H. Moore. The 
triangular piece of land on which it stands was owned by a wealthy resident 
of Medford, and no one supposed it could be bought at any price. 

The original plan of the owners was for only a story and half building 
to cover about one half of the land, but as soon as it was made known tha't 
a building was to be erected, the applications for tenancy came so fast that 
instead of the smaller building the present structure was erected. At the 
request of the Citizen PubHshing Company, which had engaged quarters in 
the building, it was named the "Citizen Building." 



4So somi:r\'/lli:, past A\n rRi.siixr. 

WES'I'WOOl) KOAD AND I'I'S RKSIDKXCKS. 

It is with no little pleasure that we are able to illustrate one of the 
most beautiful portions of the city : we refer to Westwood road and its 
modern, up-to-date residences. This fine, well kept road with its charming 
homes well illustrates what can be done, by the exercise of taste and fore- 
thought on the part of those in our city managing or developing some of our 
large estates, — and show^s in a marked degree, by its prompt public recog: 
nition, what might have been done a few years ago, to make our city the 
most sightly and attractive suburb of Boston. 

Somerville had great natural resources that were overlooked. There 
are yet many lessons that could be drawn from the two-year history of West- 
wood road. In the fall of 1S94, only two years prior to this publication, the 
old estate belonging to the late Hon. James M. Shute, adjoining the lien- 
ton Farm on Spring Hill, was bought by a member of the Benton family. 
Mr. Bradshaw immediately moved the mansion house to an ample lot at 
one side, and proceeded at once to build. a road from Central street to the 
Ijenton Farm, after the latest and most approved method of road-building, 
with sewer, water and gas all put in before the macadamizing was laid 
on a substratum of ash and cinder, thoroughly rolled. Last of all the curb- 
ing and paving of the gutters. There is no other section of road in our city 
that can compare with it for tine road-bed, and it reflects great credit on our 
street department as w-ell as on Mr. ikadshaw'. After the estate had been 
plotted out and graded, the series of houses represented in the accompany- 
ing pages were built ; and from their thoroughness of construction, and from 
the care displayed in having them of the latest designs, and each entirely 
different from the others while all were built with the closest regard to their 
juxtaposition, Mr. Bradshaw has found an immediate sale for them, almost 
as soon as they were started and months before their completion. In the 
winter of 1S95, one year after the road was built, .Mr. Bradshaw did a thing 
never before tried in Massachusetts, although successful!},' done in \\'ashing- 
ton, I). C, and Newport, K. I., the moving of a number of the largest trees 
on the estate — trees fifty and sixty years of age, large elms and maples, — 
out to the street line of the lots, some a distance of three hundred feet to 
their new locations. When one realizes that some of these trees were nearly 
fifty feet tall and eight or nine feet in circumference, it will be seen what an 
undertaking it was. But when the present summer came and the new road 
was beautifully shaded with large shade-trees — a two-year-old road with 
lifty-year-old trees — then the wisdom and good judgment of Mr. Bradshaw 
in the development of the property was more than apparent. 

In addition to this enterprise Mr. Bradshaw has just begun to lay out 
the Benton Farm, and make Benton road, which connects with \\'estwood 
road, a continued lovely spot for suburban estates. 




Residence of Charles H. Bradshaw, Summer Street. 
Residence of Rev. Nathan K. Bishop, Westwood Road. 



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BIOGRAPHIES. 



cii.\1'1"i:r xwiii. 



Aldrich, Capt. Harrison, was horn in Willianisvilk-, Vt., September iS, 1S40, son 
of Daniel T. and Laura Whipple Aldrich, of old revoluti.)nary stock, liis education was 
obtained in his native town in the district and hi<;h schools, and at Powers Institute, l?er- 
nardston, Mass. When the war broke out he was teaching; school in Petersham, Mass. He 
gave up teaching and enlisted in Co. K, 21st Regt., Mass. Vols., serving as private, ser- 
geant, lieutenant and captain; participating in the battles of Roanoke Island, Xewliern, 
Camden, Second Bull Run, Chantilly, Antietani and Fredericksburg. Was wounded in the 
battle of Xewbern. The arduous service of the regiment causing its reduction in numbers 
and its consolidation with the 36th Regiment, Capt. Aldrich resigned his commission, received 
an honorable discharge and returned to his native town, where he married Helen Louisa Morse, 
daughter of Benjamin p:.and Mary(riowe) Morse. In 1866 he came to Boston and entered the 
produce business, in which he has been successfully engaged for the past thirty years. He 
came to Somerville in 1880, and soon after bought land on the undeveloped jiart of Clilman 
street, laid out a new street leading from it, which now bears his name, and started develop- 
ment in that section by building several modern houses, which example was rapidly followed 
by others until the entire section was Iniilt upon. Eight years later he bought land and 
built a fine residence, 23 l-"ranklin street, where he has since resided. 

He served in the Common Council in 1884 and 1885, and on the P.oard of Aldermen, 
1886 and 1887. He was the first captain of the Somerville Light Infantry after its reorgan- 
ization in 1886. He is amemberofSoley Lodge, F. A. A.M.; .Somerville Chapter, R. A. M.; 
Post 139, C A. R.; Loyal Legion, U. S.; Boston Chamber of Commerce; and Boston Fruit 
an<l Produce Exchange. 

Andrews, James Mills, son of Thomas and Clara (Mills) Andrews, was born in Free- 
dom, N. II., May 22, 1837. He was educated in his native town, and in 1857 removed to 
Charlestown, and in 1885 came to Somerville to reside. In 1862 he was married to Mira 
A. Wood, daughter of Horace P. and Belinda A. Wood of Freedom, N. II., and they have 
one son, Horace. Mr. .\ndrews is engaged with his son, under the firm name of J. M. 
Andrews and Son, as carpenters and builders, and they have erected some of the most im- 
portant edifices in this and the adjoining cities. Mr. Andrews is a member of Carroll Lodge, 
F. A. A. M., of Freedom, X. IL, the Royal Arch Chapter and Orient Council of .Somerville, 
the C<eur de Lion Commandery and Scottish Rite Masons, and the Ivaidioe Lodge, 
Knights of Pythias. In 1895 ^'^ served the city as a member of the Common Council from 
Ward 3, and in 1896 as a member of the Board of Aldermen, being in that year chairman 
of the committees on printing and the police. 

Andrews, John, was born in Southington, Conn., in 1S45, the son of William and 
Theodosia (Kvansj Andrews. I lis education was begun in the public schools of his native 
town, and completed at the Hudson River Institute at Claverick, X. Y. .\t the beginning of 
the war he enlisted as a private in the First Connecticut Cavalry, was jiromoted twice and 
served until the close of the war. He then engaged in the building business with his father. 
While a resident of Killingly, Conn., he served on the School ISoard of that town. Mr. 

484 




L. Frank Arnold. 




CO 



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SOMERl'ILLE, PAST .LVD PRESENT. 48/ 

Andrews has for a number of years been engaged in the asliestos business, and is at present 
connected with the Asbestos Paper Co., Koston. He came to Somerville in 1884, and has 
served the city one year in the Common Council, and two years, 1893 and 1894, in the Board 
nf Aldermen, being president of the board in 1894. lie is a meml)er of the John Abl^ot 
Lodge, F. A. A. M., Willard C. Kinsley Post, G. A. R., and the Loyal Legion. Mr. Andrews 
was married to Miss Mary E. Graham, October 28, 1874. They have four children and 
reside at 34 All)ion street. 

Armstrong, William M., was born at Mechanic Falls, Me., August 17, 1850, the 
son of I'Vancis and Rebecca (Merriam) Armstrong. When four years of age he went to 
(ape Cod, where he remained until he was sixteen. For a year he was employed by the 
ISaltimore Steamship Company, and then was for a time engaged in ship and fur- 
niture carving. He subsequently went with his brother Samuel into the cooperage business 
in Boston, remaining with him fifteen years, until 1S86, when his brother died. The firm 
came to vSonierville aliout fifteen years ago, where it continues, doing a large l)asiness at its 
shops on Somerville avenue. In addition to its wtirks in this city, the firm has a mill at 
Athol, Mass., and another at Brookline, X. IL Mr. Armstrong was for a number of years 
president of the Somerville Y. Vi. C. A., and is a member of John Abbot Lodge, P". .\. A. M., 
Somerville Chapter, Royal Arcanum, and United Workmen. He served the city in tlu- 
< ommon Council of 1890. He married Mary A., daughter of Isaiah and PhebeX. (Fish) 
Hatch of Sandwich, Mass. They reside on .Summer street. 

Arnold, L. Frank, was born at .Somerville, September 4, 1845, ^^ ^"^^^ °f Leonard 
and Irene (i. (('lark) Arnold. His education was obtained in the Somerville schools, and 
he has always resided in this city. He is interested in street railways and in real estate in 
lK)ston, and is well known among business men as one full of industry and enthusiasm in 
the work in which he is engaged. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., 
and other Masonic bodies; is a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, and is 
one of the order of the Cincinnati and the only member in Somerville; in this organization 
he succeeded his father, Leonard Arnold, who, at the time of his death, was the oldest 
living member, having belonged to the society hfty-live years. Mr. .\rnold married Miss 
Lilla 1'". Poole, October 25, 1S77. Their residence is at 28 Vinal avenue. 

Backus, Edward, was born in Cambridgeport, Mass., August 9, 1848, the son of 
(Jeorge B. and Jane G. Backus. He attended school in his native city, and went to Maine in 
1869, where he followed various pursuits, remaining four years. In 1874 he engaged with 
Stearns & George, Boston, electricians, and after five yeais went to work tor the American 
Bell Telephone Company, with which he remained twelve years, leaving there to go with the 
(lamewell Fire Alarm Telegraph Company, where he acquired greater knowledge, which 
served him and the city of Somerville to great advantage when Mr. Backus was appointed 
superintendent of the city fire alarm telegraph in 1889. He held the position three years, 
and then went to Cambridge, where he became connected with the Cambridge Fire Alarm 
system, and this year was called back to Somerville to be superintendent of the lamps of 
the entire city, having charge of about ninety miles of wire, 470 arc and 360 incandescent 
lamps, full control of the fire alarm and police signal systems, the city telephones, etc. 

Mr. Backus can be called a thorough master of his business, and discharges his duties 
with efficiency, promptness, courtesy and fidelity. He came Vo Somerville in 1887, and now 
resides at 91 Munroe street. He marrie<l Mary Ellen Doe of Lexington in 1873, ^""^^ '^^^ 
two children. Mr. Backus is a member of St. Omer Lodge of Knights of Pythias, of Cam- 
Ijridge. 

Bailey, Ernest W., was born December 20, 1866, at the old homestead, corner of 
Highland avenue and Central street, and has continued to live there until the present time. 
His father, .\. H. Bailey, one of the first residents of Somerville, died when his son was 



4SS soMiiRiii.i.i:, J'.isr .i.v/> j'kj:sj:\/\ 

abnut thirteen years of age. Mr. IJailey received his education in tlie pul)lic schools of this 
city, grathiatint; from the Korster Grammar School, attending the High Schtiol and com- 
l)leting his school days at Tufts College, where he fitted for the profession of a civil engineer. 
I >n leaving college he entered one of the oldest and best engineering firms in Boston, where 
he acquired the practical and business knt)wledge of the profession he had chosen to follow . 
Mr. IJailey remained with this lirm about two an<I one-half years, being engaged in all lines 
of engineering; in .\ugust, 1S87, he was selected, by the former city engineer, II. I>. Katon. 
as his lirst assistant in the City Engineering Department of Somerville, which jiosition he 
held until the death of Mr. Eaton in November, 1895. Mr. IJailey was then made the 
acting city engineer for the remainder of that year, and, in January, 1S96, was appointed 
city engineer, being the youngest of the city's officials. During his first year as city engi- 
neer some of the most important engineering in the city has been carried out, such as the 
connecting of the entire system of city sewers with the metropolitan or state sewer, and the 
large storm-water drain and sewer through the Tannery Brook Valley in West Somerville, 
besides many other local improvements in the engineering line. 

Mr. Bailey is a member of the Boston Society of Civil Engineers, the New England 
Water Works .Vssociation, .Somerville Central Club, Somerville Young Men's Christian 
Association, and other social organizations. 

Bailey, J. Warren. New Hampshire has furnished many prominent sons now resi- 
dents of our growing city, and among those highly esteemed is the subject of this sketch. 
Mr. Bailey was born in Derry, June 3, 1846, the son of Jeremiah and Harriet N. Bailey. 
His school advantages were favorable to his receiving a fine education, and at the age of 
nineteen he was appointed to a position in the Khode Island State Prison, remaining there- 
in four years, and retiring as deputy warden. He then went to the Massachusetts State Pris- 
on, where he served in a similar capacity, under Warden Haynes. In 1S72 he had tired of 
the line he had pursued so long, and estal)lished himself in business in Bronitield street, Bos- 
ton, but the store was soon too small for his increasing trade, and nearly thirteen years ago 
he moved to the spacious store at 108 Tremont street, where he now conducts the finest em- 
broidery establishment to be found in Boston, as many of our citizens can testify. Mr. Bailey 
came to Somerville in 1872, was elected to the Common Council eight years after, and re- 
elected the subsequent year, being chosen president of the body. In 1884 and 1885 he was 
elected to the House of Representatives, where he served with marked distinction. He has 
always taken great interest in any matter relating to West Somerville, and his name is identi- 
fied with all the prominent fraternal and social organizations, besides that of the Day-street 
Congregational Church. He is no^v president of the nourishing West Somerville Co-opera- 
tive Bank; a member of Elm Council, Royal Arcanum; Cameron Lodge, Knights of Honor; 
and Provident Lodge, A. f). U. W., in all of which he has been the presiding officer. 

luly I, 1894, CJovernor Greenhalge, in looking over the State for a prison commissioner, 
selected Mr. Bailey as being one uho by experience and education would cause him to fill 
the position with credit, and he was appointed for the term of live years ami immediately 
confirmed. 

Mr. Bailey married for his lirst wife Miss Emeline K. Clark, daughter of Eben T. an<l 
Rebecca (Kimball) Clark, and had one daughter, Eilith Newell, now a young lady promi- 
nent in Somerville's society. His second wife was Miss Jennie N. Loud, daughter ofCeorge 
B. and Susan J. Loud, of Plymouth, Me. Mrs. Bailey has always taken a lively interest in 
local affairs, especially in church and philanthropic work. They reside at the corner of Or- 
chard and Do\er streets. 

Baldwin, Fred C, for the past three years master of the Eorster School, is a native 
of the ( iranite State, having been born at Nashua in 1859. His early education was obtained 
in the schools of Manchester, \. IL, and he was graduated from Dartmouth College in the 



SOMEIUVLLE, FAST AND PRESEiVT. 4CS9 

class of i88i. Previous to his graduation he taught winter terms at Harwich and South 
Dennis, Mass., and subsequently was engaged at the latter town until the winter of 1883, 
when he was called to the mastership of the Franklin-street School of Manchester, N. H. 
After a service of seven years he was promoted to the mastership of the Ash-street School, 
the largest school in the city. Here he completed the tenth year of his connection with 
the schools of Manchester before accepting his present pt)sition in Somerville. 

Ball, John N., was l)orn at Antrim, X. IL, in 1S35. When he was three months old 
his parents removed to Marlow, where he attended the district and high schools, remaining 
there until he was seventeen years of age. He then went to Nashua, where he kept a hotel 
eight years. Subsequently he removed to Wisconsin where he resided two years, and then 
went to New Orleans where he remained eight years, from 1863 to 1871, two years of which 
he was engaged in the United States custom service and four years as deputy collector of 
revenue. Mr. Ball has lieen in the pasted-shoe st<x-k business for many years, having a 
factory at North Somerville. He is a member of the Common Council and of the Knights 
of Honor, and resides at 690 liroadway. 

Barker, Nathaniel C, assistant chief of the Somerville Fire Department, was born at 
Piermont, N. H., Sept. 28, 1836, and was educated in the public schools of that town. When 
sixteen years of age he went to Manchester, N. H., and found employment in one of the 
cotton mills there. He had been a resident of that city but a few months when he was 
elected a member of the Torrent No. 5 Hand-engine Company, and subsequently elected second 
assistant foreman, which position he held when that engine made its famous record of 180 
feet perpendicular playing at the Worcester, Mass., firemen's muster, September 5, 1857, 
which gave it first prize, defeating fifty-three competitors, inchiding the best engines in New 
England. Captain Barker held the pipe on that historical occasion. 

When the war broke out he was one of the first to enlist, and went to the front with 
the nth N. H. \'olunteers, one of the best regiments that \\ent from that State. He was 
elected corporal soon after enlistment, and subsequently promoted to sergeant. He was 
wounded at Cold Harbor, which confined him to the hospital eleven months, and rendered 
him unfit for further service. He then returned to New Hampshire, and after a long con- 
tinued sickness was appointed a turnkey at the Hillsboro' County Jail, where he remained 
eighteen months, resigning to learn the trade of carpenter. 

He came to Somerville in 1870, and entered the employ of a prominent builder, and 
has Ijeen engaged in the building business ever since. < )ctober i, 1871, he was enrolled as 
a meml)er of Hook and Ladder Co. No. I, and was promoted to assistant foreman in January, 
1872, and foreman,'i875, which position he occupied until promoted to his present position 
in January, 1877. He is a prominent member of the G. xA.. R. and other organizations. 

Barnes, Walter S., son of Clark and Sarah (Corse) Barnes, was born in Enosburg, 
\ t., November 2, 183S. He was educated in the district schools. He came to Boston in 
1855, and was employed in a hat and cap store. In 1861 he became bookkeeper for a 
paper-box manufacturer, and in 1868 went into the business on his own account. His es- 
tablishment was burned out in the great fire of 1872, and again in March, 1893, by the 
Essex-street fire. He moved to Somerville in 1863, and was elected to the Common Council 
in 1872, 1873 and again in 1876. In 1879 he was a member of the School Board, and from 
1883 to 1888 was a member of the .Somerville Water Board, and as such did most efficient 
and valuable service. He was a member of the standing committee of the First Congrega- 
tional (Unitarian) Church for several years from 1859, and served as treasurer of that society. 
He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Paul Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F., and Winter 
Hill Lodge, K. H. Mr. Barnes married Miss Melissa, daughter of Mosel and Abigail 
(Goddard) Aldrich of ]\Iiddlesex, Vt. His business, that of a paper-box manufacturer, is 
located at ;oi-^ Congress street. 




George E. Baxter. 



SOMERIVLL/:, J'. 1ST .LVD PRESENT. 49 I 

Baxter, George E., was htirn in Pawtucket, R. I., April 19. 1856. His parents re- 
nujved to Boston in 1858, and he received his education in the public schools of that city. 
Me went to work in his thirteenth year, and when sixteen years old secured employment 
with a veneer and lumber concern, and has since been identified with that business. Mr. 
Baxter was for four years treasurer of the Lumber Dealers' Association of Boston. In 1885 
he entered into partnership with Mr. John M. Woods under the firm name of John M. 
Woods & Co., and remained as a partner in that concern until September i, 1S94, when he 
withdrew his interest and started in business in his own name in the same line with extensive 
yards, dry kilns, etc., in East Cambridge, with an office in Boston. 

In 1876 Mr. Baxter was married to Miss Charlotte R. Myers of Boston, and a year later 
came to .Somerville to reside. In 1888 he bought the estate No. 75 Boston street, and has 
since largely improved it. In politics Mr. Baxter has been a Democrat, and has been honored 
with the nomination to the .School Board in 1892, the Legislature in 1893, ^"<^1 '" '^94 ^^'^s 
nominated for Mayor of the city. Mr. Baxter is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., an 
officer in Somerville Royal Arch Chapter and Orient Council of R. & S. M., and a meml)er 
>-)f De Molay Commandery. Is past dictatdr nf Warren Lodge, K. of II., and a member of 
Winter Hill Lodge, U. (). of W. 

Baxter, George L., the son of William W. and Ann E. (Weld) Baxter, was born at 
<^uincy, Mass., ( )ctober 21, 1S42, and is descended from ( iregory Baxter, who came from 
England with Winthrop, and married Margaret Paddy, sister of William Paddy of the 
Plymouth Colony. He obtained his early education in the Quincy schools, entering at 
eleven years upon a course preparatory to college with special reference to the profession of 
teaching, was admitted to Harvard College in 1859 and graduated with high honors in 1S63. 
During his college course he had become well ac(|uainted with the management of -the 
public schools and the methods of instruction, and immediately on graduating began his 
work of teaching. He taught Latin and English in a private French school in Boston till 
April, 1864, when he was appointed, at the age of twenty-one, principal of the Reading High 
School. After remaining at Reading nine months, he was chosen principal of the Plymouth 
High School as successor to A. P. Stone. He taught nearly three years at Plymouth, and in 
July, 1867, came to Somerville to the position of principal of the High School. Fie has had 
thirty-two graduating classes and 1,500 graduates, of whom over 400 have completed a course 
preparatory to college. In 1872 he married Ida F., daughter of William and Sarah F. L. 
(Berry) Paul, and has one son, Gregory Paul Baxter, a recent graduate of Harvard. 

Besides filling various ofiices in other societies, he was secretary of John Abbot Lodge 
and .Somerville Chapter of R. A. Masons for nearly twenty years, and he has been associate 
corporator and trustee of the Somerville Savings Bank since its incorporation. 

Bean, James W., was bom in Somerville in 1866. He is the son of Police-officer 
Ceorge W. Bean, who has been a resident of Somerville for nearly fifty years. After grad- 
uating from the Luther V. Bell < irammar School in 1S80, and the Somerville High School 
in 1884, he learned the rudiments of the printer's trade and reporter's art in the office of 
the ".Somerville Journal." In 1S86 he became the .Somerville and Cambridge correspondent 
of the "Boston Post," and later had market reporting added to his work. He remained in 
those capacities for about two years. In 1888 he associated himself with the Boston " Daily 
.Vdvertiser," where for four years he was assistant commercial editor. While on the " Adver- 
tiser " he also held the positions of city editor of the (Cambridge " Chronicle " for three years 
and city editor of the Cambridge "Press " for one year. In 1891 he formed a copartnership 
with Mr. C. Burnside Seagrave, of Cambridge, under the title of the Cambridge Chronicle 
(/ompany, and purchased the " Chronicle," which has been conducted by the company ever 
since. The " Chronicle '" is a leading weekly newspaper in Middlesex County, that height 
having been reached under the present management, liesides publishing the paper, the 




James W. Bean. 



SOMERV-ZLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 493 

concern does a first-class job printing business. In 1891 and 1892 Mr. liean served in the 
Common Council, and is undoubtedly the youngest man ever elected to that body. Mr. 
Bean is married, has one child, and resides at No. 40 Columbus avenue. 

Beekman, Rev. Garret, is a native of New Jersey, in which state he lived until early 
manhood. His educational a.lvantages up to the age of sixteen were few. At this point he 
began a svstematic course of reading and study, and under the direction of private teachers 
prepared himself for what soon became his life-work. In 1867 he entered the Theological 
School of Boston University, from which he graduated in 1S70. In April, 1868, he 
or<^anized what is now known as the Flint-street M. E. Church of SomerviUe. He was its tirst 
pastor, and served it for two years. In April, 1870, he joined the New England Conference 
on trial, and was admitted to full membership in 1872. His fust charge after joimng the 
conference was at Byfield, Mass., which he served for the full term of three years. His sub- 
sequent appointments were Lawrence, Mass., Lynn, Danvers, Worcester, Southbndge, Kos- 
lindale, Boston, Chicopee Falls, Westboro, and now West SomerviUe. During this period 
he or-^anized the church at Middleton, Mass., and that at West Roxbury. The Parker- 
street Church of Lawrence, Mass., was built largely through his personal endeavors. On 
other charges churches have been enlarged and beautified, and oppressive debts paid princi- 
pally through his instrumentality, and in some of the churches he has served there have 
been sweeping revivals under his lea.lership; this is the third year of his pastorate in West 
SomerviUe, where he ministers to a strong and growing church. 

Belknap, Austin, was born in Westboro, July 18, 1819, the son of John and Ruth 
(Fay) Belknap, of that town. His education was obtained in the district school of his 
native town, and at the Worcester Manual Labor High School, from which he was graduated 
as a civil engineer. After some experience in railroad construction, he came to Boston in 
1843 and entered the general produce an.l commission business, in which he has remained 
until the present time. Mr. Belknap came to SomerviUe in 1853. He served the town as 
selectman in 1869, 1870 and 1871, and the city as member of the School Committee in 1862, 
1863 and 1864. He was a trustee of the Public Library in 1S73 and 1S74, and was mayor m 
1876 and 1877. Mr. Belknap is a member of the John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.; Somer- 
viUe Chapter, R. A. M.; and Ue Molay Commandery, K. T. Mr. Belknap married Miss 
Jane P , daughter of HoUoway and Frances (Read) Brigham, of Westbom. 

Bell Luther V., M. D., LL. D., was born in Chester, N. H., December 20, 1S06. 
He was ara.hiated from Bowdoin College before he had finished his seventeenth year. He 
received his medical degree from the Hanover Medical School. He early d.st.ngmshed 
himself in the practice of his profession, particularly in surgery and in the treatment of the 
insane. In Januarv, 1837, he entered upon his duties as superintendent of the McLean 
Vsylum for the Insane, and for twenty years conducted the institution with rare ability and 
success He was everywhere acknowledged as an authority on all questions connected xMth 
his profession. He was always interested in whatever affected the welfare of SomervUle 
and was chairman of the School Board from 1843 to 1847- In 1S50 he was a member of 
the Executive Coundl, in 1S52 a candidate for Congress, and in 1856 for the office of Cov- 
ernor. In 1856, in consequence of failing health, he retired from the McLean Asylum, and 
thenceforth resided in Charlestown. In 1861, animated by an intense love of country, 
notwithstanding his feeble health, he offered his services to the State, and was commissioned 
as surgeon of the i ith Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers. He engaged immediately in 
active service, being soon promoted to the post of Brigade Surgeon and finally t., that of 
Division Surgeon. As a result of exposure an<l the rigors of the service, after a brief lUness, 
he died February 11, 1862. 

By vote of the School Board on March i, 1862, the primary school on Cherry street 
was named the L. V. Bell School in his memory. In 1867 this school was closed, an<I in 1874 
the school on Vinal avenue was named the Luther V. Bell School in his honor. 




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SOMERllLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 495 

Bennett, Clark, was horn in Londonderry, Vt., November 3, 1810. His ancestors 
were among the early settlers of ( hoton, Mass. His grandfather, David, early joined the 
Continental Army, and served in the siege of Boston. Mr. Bennett was the eldest son of 
nine children. When he was twenty-one years old he settled in Somerville, then Charlestown, 
where for twenty-five years he successfully carried on the brick business, then a leading 
industry of the town. Later he followed the insurance business. 

Mr. Bennett's actions on all public matters requiring his attention were controlled by a 
conscientious desire to do right, as well as a full knowledge of the requirements, present and 
future, of our growing city. The abatement of the Miller's River nuisance, the inauguration 
of an excellent sewerage system, more especially for West Somerville, the widening anil 
grading of Somerville avenue, and the construction of the public park, all bear witness to 
liis unremitting efforts to place Somerville on a par with her sister cities. The record of Mr. 
bennett's official service includes eleven years on the School Committee, a part of the time 
its chairman, the town treasurership, and three years' service in the Board of Aldermen. 
Mr. Bennett died January 6, 1882. The Bennett School was named in his honor by vote of 
the School Board, April 8, 186S. 

Bennett, Dana W., son of Clark Bennett, was born in Somerville, February 28, 1859. 
lie received his education in the Somerville schools, from which he graduated with great 
credit. He is now engaged in the insurance business at 82 Water street, Boston, and rep- 
resents for that city and Massachusetts large fire and accident insurance corporations. 
He was a member of the city government for five years, serving three years in the Common 
Council, and retiring from the Boar.l of Aldermen in 1887 after two years' service. Mr. 
Bennett is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M. He resides at 41 Putnam street. 

Bentley, George William, son of John and Caroline Bentley, was born September 14. 
1 859, at Sutton-Coldfield, England. Coming to America in 1881, he settled in Massachusetts 
in the year 1882. In 1883 he entered upon the line of business in which he is now engaged. 
In 1892 the "George William Bentley Company" was incorporated under the laws of 
^Lassachusetts, for the purpose of transacting business as manufacturers' agents, and Mr. 
r.entley is in charge of the business. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., of 
Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, and of De Molay Commandery of Knights Templar; also of 
Cnity Council, Royal Arcanum. For the greater part of the time since coming to Massa- 
chusetts he has resided in Boston and Somerville, Ijeing at present located at the handsome 
residence. No. 19 Adams street. Winter Hill, lie was married to Miss Emma J. Myers of 
New York City, and they have three children. 

Berry, William H., son of Robert Berry and Maria ( MacMahon) Berry, was born 
March 25. 1855. in New Jersey. His father died while William was a child in New 
\ork, after which event his mother moved with the family to Lexington, Mass., where he- 
remained until he was twelve years of age. The family removed to Somerville al)out 1867. 
He was educated in the public schools of Lexington and Somerville, and in a commercial 
college in Boston. He was employed for three years in the wholesale department of R. H. 
White's store, and at the age of eighteen commenced learning the mason's trade with John 
W. Leighton of Boston. He was engaged in that trade in California for three and one-hall 
years from 1874. 1 le was engaged in the hacking and carriage business at 14 to 20 Custom 
House street, I'.oston, for four years, and in May, 1889, purchased the property which is 
known as the Custom House Stal)les, where he puts up from one hundred to two hundred 

horses daily. 

Mr. Berry has also consideralile real estate in Somerville and Winthrop. He served 
in the Common Council of Somerville in 1894-95, and on the Board of Aldermen of 1896. 
He is a member of Mt. Sinai Lodge, I. O. O. F., North Cambridge, and the Somerville 
Encampment; also of St. John's Lodge, F. A. A. M., of Boston, Somerville Royal Arch 




Edward Backus. 




Hiram R. Bishop. 




J. Albion Briggs. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 499 

Chapter, Orient Council, and De Molay Comman.lcry. lie was married in i8Si, and has 
three children. He resides at 39 Cherry street. 

Bingham, Norman Williams, was born in Derby, Vt., May 19. 1829, and educated in 
the public sch.,uls and in tlie aca.lemies at Derby and St. Johnsbury, Vt. He studied law at 
Irasburgh, and in 1855 was appointed Clerk of Orleans County Court, and thus became 
^-.v offldo Clerk of the- .Supreme Court and the Court of Chancery as well. During the war 
for "the Union he held several important places of trust, both State and national, and his 
services were of great value to the country. In 1S66 he was made special agent for the 
United States Treasury Department, and three years later was placed in charge of the cus- 
toms revenue district of Neu- England, comprising thirty-two collection districts. He held 
this important position until 1S85, an<l discharged its arduous and exacting duties with great 
ability and fearless independence. His experience and influence led to the modification and 
improvement of the customs laws, and to a marked increase in the efficiency of that depart- 
ment of i.ublic service. Mr. Bingham removed to SomerviUe in 1869, and has always been 
influential in furthering the interests of the city. He was elected to the School Board in 
1880, and served without interniptinn fur lifteen years. His labors in connection with 
schools have been marked by a discriminating regard for their interests and by constant 
etfort to secure their advancement. The school on Lowell street, erected in 18S6 and en- 
larged in 1894, was named the Bingham School in perpetuation of his name and memory. 

Binney, Martin, second son of I'.amabas and Jane (Binney) Binney, was born at 
East Cambridge, Mass., February 24, 1831. He comes of Old (-olony stock, which dates 
back t.. 1635. in which year Capt. John Binney, the ancestor of the family in America came 
from England and settled in Hull, Mass. Mr. Binney passed his earlier days at East Cam- 
bridge, and received his education in the Cambridge schools. At the age of seventeen he 
was engaged in the clothing business, and subsequently was bookkeeper with How & Leeds 
in Boston, and after that entered the real estate and insurance business. Since the age of 
nineteen he has been connecte.l with the militia of this State, he having joined the old Bos- 
ton Light Infantry and the Fusileers at that period. 

In i860 he joined the SomerviUe Light Infantry, Capt. Francis Tufts, and in April, 
1861, was one of the first to enlist in this company (Co. I, 5th Mass. Vols.) f,.r three months' 
service, during which he participated in the battle of Bull Run, Jidy 21, iSbi. He was 
honorably discharged, August i, 1 861, and in October following was commissioned second 
lieutenant in the loth Maine Volunteers. He was detached early in 1862, and appointed assis- 
tant adjutant-general upon the staff of Col. Dixon S. Miles, in which position he took part in 
several' skirmishes and in the siege of Harper's Ferry in June, 1862, after which he was com- 
plimented in general orders for '-gallant and meritorious services in action." He was m 
this siege promoted first lieutenant, ha,l his horse shot under him and was himself badly 
injured. At the surrender of Harper's Ferry to the Confederate general, A. V. Hill, Lieut. 
Binnev was with the other troops a paroled prisoner of war, and remained such until Jan- 
uary i, 1863, at which date he was exchanged. He immediately reported to Maj.-Gen. 
John E. Wool, commanding the Department of the East, headquarters in New York City, 
where he remained until June, 1863. Again enlisting he was at once (March iS, 1864) 
commissioned first lieutenant, an,l assigned to Co. B, 28th Mass. Vols. (Faugh-a-Ballaghs), and 
soon after was appointed upon the staff of Gen. Thomas Smythe of the Irish Brigade, ist 
div ^d Tlancock) corps. In Mav, 1864, he was promoted to captain in that regiment, and 
in July was appointed personal aide-de-camp to Maj.-Gen. Frank C. Barlow, commanding 
the 1st Div., 2d corps, and was retained in the same position by Maj.-Gen. Nelson A. Miles, 
who succeeded Gen. Barlow, until August 25, 1864, on which date, at the battle of Reams- 
Station, his horse was killed beneath him, and he was wounded in the Lg and received 
other injuries which incapacitated him from further service in the war, and he was honor- 



500 so M I :r I'll. 1. 1'-. PAST A XI) rRi:si:xj\ 

al>ly (iisiharjjca itcccmntr lo. 1S64. In his army service Capl. Hinney participated in 
upwards of twenty-live battles anil enga-iienients, and had the rejiutation of being a most 
competent, daring and intrepid officer and soldier. After the close of the war he was rec- 
ommended by Maj.-Cens. Hancock, V . C. Barlow and Nelson A. Miles for a commission in 
the regular army. 

Since the war C'apt. Hinney has d.me a large amount of ornamental pen-work, for which 
lie is celebrated, and was for some time employed by Aaron Sargent, late city treasurer, to 
write the bonds issued by the city, they having been at that time made with the pen. He 
has also been employed as an accountant in clearing up complicated accounts. He was in 
the Common Council in 1881 and 1882, was an active member for nearly twelve years of 
the National Lancers, Boston, and is now an honorary member of that body; is a member 
(and I'ast lommander) of the \V. C. Kinsley Post, (\. A. R.; of the Damon Lodge. K. 1'., 
Washington, I). C; Antietam Command, Union Veterans' Union; and the Keystone Lodge, 
A, F. and A. M., of St. Louis, Mo. He is also a life member of the Lancers' Veteran Chari- 
table Association. He resides at 9 Linden Place. 

Bishop, Hiram R., was born in Slanstead, P. (^)., Canada, in 1830, and his early life 
was passed in that town. After completing his education, he taught school three years 
in Stanstead, and then came to East Cambridge, where he entered the employ of Elijah 
Space, ladder manufacturer, in which position he remained seven years. He then removed 
to Somerville, purchased a tract of land on Broadway, where he built a ladder factory, and 
began the business of manufacturing and continued in it until his death, which occurred Feb- 
ruary 12, 1888. Mr. Bishop was a meml)er of the first City Council of Somerville and a 
member of the Flint-street Methodist Church. He was a man of unblemished reputation, 
and was much esteemed in i>oth public and private life. 

Bowman, Selwyn Z., was born in Charlestown, May 11, 1840, the son of Zadock 
and Rosetta (Cram) Bowman, of that place. His early education was oi)tained in the public 
schools and high school of Charlestown, whence he passed to Harvard College, where he 
was graduated A. P.. in i860 and LL. B. in 1863. He was admitted to the Suffolk bar in 
1863, and opened a law office in Boston, where he has ever since remained. Mr. Bowman 
came to Somerville in 1856. He has served the city as city solicitor in 1872, 1873, and for 
the last eight years. 1 le represented the city in the Legislatures of 1870, 1871 and 1875 ; was 
in the Senate of 1876 and 1877; and represented the lifth congressional district in the 46th and 
47th Congresses in 1S78-81. Mr. Bowman is a P. M. of John Abbot L(jdge, and a member 
of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M.; a member of Somerville Chapter, R. A. M; the Central and 
Middlesex Clubs. Mr. Bowman married Miss Martha E., daughter of Bowen E. and Sarah 
.\. (Mead) Tufts, of Lexington. They reside on Broadway. 

Brainard, Charles E., was l)orn at Killingly, Conn., September 14, 1S62, the son of 
lames S. and Lucy A. (Chase) Brainartl. He graduated from the Danielsonville High 
School, in the class of 1882, and for the first year thereafter taught at North Killingly, the 
home of William T. Harris, U. S. Commissioner of Education. For two years he was prin- 
cipal of the grannnar school at Dayville, Connecticut, and for three years principal of the 
fifth district school at Putnam, in the same State. He then came to Massachusetts and was 
principal at Wellesley for one year. 

That .Mr. Brainard was destined to be a leader in school work was evident to the school 
authorities of Somerville, when, in 1889, they elected him'principal of the Edgerly School. 
The building was an eight-room one at the time, and he was the lirst male principal the 
school had ever had. Mr. Brainard brought to his new place an impetus such as few schools 
have ever enjoyed. His inspiration to make success instant and certain was soon caught up 
by his able corps of teachers and pupils, and the seven years in which he has held his position 
have been those of prosperity, earnestness, fi.lelity, and void of adverse criticism so far as he 



SOMERl'ILLE. PAST AXD PRESEXT. 501 

is concerned. He is always ready to add the newest itieas to his work, and is as indefatigable 
as he is able. 

Mr. Brainard was president of the Somerville Teachers' Association for 1894-5, ^"^'^ '^ 
n(j\\ local secretary of the Teachers' Annuity Guild. He is a member of the Massachusetts 
."schoolmasters' Clul), besides various other teachers' organizations. He is also a member of 
Excelsior Council, Royal Arcanum. 

Mr. Brainard's mind has tine business bent, and it has led him to employ his summer 
vacation time in conducting the Wesley House at Cottage City, Martha's \'ineyard. Com- 
mencing at the lowest round thirteen years ago, first as waiter, he made every department a 
thorough study, and six years ago became sole proprietor. The many patrons who have vis- 
ited him can attest to his ability and geniality, it being his one endeavor to please all and 
give offense to none. In that way he has, in addition to the fine location of the house, 
made it second to none at Cottage City. Mr. Brainard married Enola C, daughter of Capt. 
Richard and Carrie Cunningham, at Gloucester, Mass., December 29, 1890. 

Brastow, George 0., was born in Wrentham, September 8, 181 1. He came to 
Charlestown (Somerville) in 1838, and located on Spring Hill; was a large owner of real 
estate, and built many houses in the town. He was very prominent in the division of the 
town in 1S42, and \Vas chosen selectman in 1845 and again in 1867. He served on the 
school committee from 1847 '^^ 1862; represented Somerville in the House in 1849, 1850, 
1 85 1, and 1862; was a member of the Senate in 1854, and was again elected in 1866, serving 
four years, the last two as president. He went to the war as captain of the Somerville 
Company in 1862, and was afterward paymaster in the army. Mr. Brastow was chosen first 
mayor of Somerville in 1871 ; was re-elected in 1872; was a member of the Governor's 
Council in 1874, 187 s, and 1876, and was one of the founders of the Middlesex and .Somer- 
ville horse railroads, also of Post 139. He died at Canandaigua, N. Y., November 20, 1878. 

Briggs, J. Albion, was born in Westbrook, Me., December 2, 1852, the son of 
Albion K. P. and Caroline C. (Chase) Briggs. When <|uite young his parents moved to 
Woburn, Mass., and after a two years' residence there his father died, and the family moved 
to Portland, Me., where he attended the public schools. When twelve years of age he 
came to Boston, and was a graduate of the Mayhew .School. He returned to Portland and 
entered the law office of Hon. W. H. Clifford. Mr. Briggs was afterward engaged in the 
shijiping Jiusiness in Portland, going from there to Cuba, continuing in the same business 
and residing in Matanzas. Returning to Massachusetts, he accepted a position as assistant 
superintendent of the Westboro Reform School, leaving there to accept a similar position 
in Philadelphia, where he remained five years. He came to Somerville ia 1885, and asso- 
ciatetl himself with C. C. Davis, under the firm name of Davis and Briggs, in the real estate 
and insurance business in Union square. Since June, 1890, the business has been con- 
ducted by Mr. Briggs under the same firm name. He has the care of many large estates. 
He is the Supreme ( iovernor of the United Order of Pilgrim Fathers; member of Wonoha- 
fiuaham Tribe, L O. R. M.; Somerville Lodge, A. O. U. W. ; Central Club, Sons of Maine, 
Middlesex Club; was chairman of Ward 2 Repul)lican City Committee, three years. He 
resides on Vinal avenue. 

Brigham, William E., editor and manager of the Somerville " Citizen " since Christmas, 
1894, and to w hose ]iersonal energv the marked increase in the growth of the " Citizen " and 
the organization of the new company, in consequence, are due, was born in Boston, Feb- 
ruary 16, 1865, but since the age of three and one-half years has lived at 4 Hillside avenue. 
East Somerville. He graduated from the Prescott Grammar Scht)ol in iSSo and from the 
Somerville High School in 1884, making a special success of the study of literature and 
kindred branches. He was one of the founders and the original editor of the Somerville 
High .School "Radiator," estaljlished in December, 1882, and which he conducted until his 



502 somj:ki7/./.j:, j'.ist .lvd /'A'/:s/:.v/\ 

graduation. After a suiunicr term as clerk at the popular Shirley House, ( )cean Spray, 
Winthrop, Mr. Hrighain went upon the Huston "Globe'* as a rept)rter. In due time he was 
promoted to an editorial position, and was successively assistant night editor, assistant clay 
editor, editor of Sunday correspondence — a very res])onsil)le ])lace and refjuirinj; the nicest 
judt^nient, and \\hich he held four years — and assistant to the assistant managing editor. 
Mr. Hrigham resigned in July, 1S91, to become managing editor of the Lynn "Daily I'ress," 
and resigned from that paper in Octolier, 1893, to become assistant manager of the Keeley 
Institutes of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut, which office he held when called 
to take charge of the " Citi/.en," Oecember 22, 1S94. 1 )uring iSo^ and 1S94 he lived in 
Lynn, a city to which he is warmly attached. 

Mr. Hrigham is a charier member of the Boston Press t'luh, and for several years was 
a director of it and one of its vice presidents, and is specially remembered for his brilliant 
work in arranging its popular series of receptions to noted personages, w hich he originated, 
beginning with the lamented Frank Mayo, and including such men as P. T. liarnum, George 
Kennan, Wilson Barrett, (has. NVyndham, and other famous actors and writers. Mr. Brig- 
ham is a member of the Central Club, has been a member of the Webcowit Club of Somer- 
ville, the select Park Club of Lynn, and has been for seven years a member of Soley Lodge, 
A. F. and A. M., and of Somerville Council, 103, Home Circle. He \\as manager of the 
great Brigham family reunion, which took place in Odd Fellows" Hall, lioston, in ( )ctol)er, 

1895, ^^'^^ 'he first president of the Brigham Club of Boston, and is j. resident of the 
national Brigham Family Association, he having been elected to that position in October, 

1896, for a term of three years. Mr. Brigham is a widower, having buried a wife and 
two children. 

Bruce, George A., was bom at Mount Wrmm, X. II., November 19, 1S39, the son of 
Nathaniel and Lucy ( Buttertield) Bruce, of that town. He was fitted for college at the 
Ajiplelon Academy in his native town, and was graduated at Dartmouth College in 1861. 
He enlisted in the Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers, and served as first lieutenant, 
aide, judge advocate, and assistant adjutant-general. He was mustered out July 3. 1S65, 
and brevetted lieutenant-colonel. He studied law in Lowell, and was admitted to the bar in 
1866, and opened his office in Boston, where he has ever since remained. Mr. Bruce was 
a member of the New Hampshire Legislature in 1866, and of the Senate of Massachusetts 
in 18S2, 1883 and 1884, l)eing president of the Senate the last ytar. He came to Somerville 
in 1874, and served the city as mayor in 1877, 1S80 and 188 1. Mr. Bruce married Miss 
Clara .M., daughter of Joseph !•". and .Sarah (Longley) Hall, of Groton. They reside on 
Highland avenue. 

Burlen, Lorenzo Wickliffe, was born in Boston, October 4, 1850. His parents, Moses 
and Sarah Ann Burlen (nee Dickinson), and lirothers M. Prescott, \Villiam Henry and 
Melancthon are all living, an only sister, Sarah Syrcne, having died. Mr. Burlen was edu- 
cated in the ])ublic schools of Boston, having had for teacher, in the Mayhew School, Quincy 
K. Dickerman i>{ our city, to whom he feels greatly indebted for physical as well as mental 
instruction. After two years of study in the Fnglish high school in 1866, he went to Eayr's 
private school on Somerset street, and became one of the most active members of the base- 
ball nine of that sch(jol, and participated in (Hher athletic sports of those days, rowing, etc. 
In 1867 he was employed in the office of "The Narragansett S.S. Co." in the Old State 
House, now " Fall River Line." In .Ajiril, 1868, he was appointed as messenger of the Na- 
tional Bank of the Republic, under the late David Snow, jiresident, and Charles .\. X'ialle 
(now president), cashier. In February, 1872, he was appointed discount clerk of the Co- 
lumljian National Bank, the <luties of which he faithfully performed for fifteen years until 
October i, 1887. when he was elected cashier of the bank, which position he now holds. 
Mr. Burlen is one of the l)est known men on State street an<l in the banking circles, having 




Lorenzo W. Burlen. 



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Charles S. Butters. 



S0MI-:R\'ILLK, past and PR/iSENT. 505 

attended to the business of the banks with which he has been associated, at the Boston 
Clearing House, daily almost continuously for nearly thirty years. He was elected pres- 
ident of the Bank Officers' Association of Boston with a present membership of 619, at 
the annual meeting of the association in May, 1896. In October, 1850, Mr. Burlen was 
married to Mary Helen, daughter nf William ami fane Kerr (latter now deceased), and has 
two sons living, Lorenzo Wickliffe, Jr., and William Iverr. He has recently purchased a 
residence in Brookline. 

Burns, Mark F., son of Charles A. and Elizabeth (Hutchinson) Burns, was born in 
Milfonl, N. H., i\Iay 24. 1S41. He came of good old New England stock, and his parents 
were among the earliest and most active of the anti-slavery agitators and always leaders in 
every good cause. He spent his early life on his father's farm, and obtained his education 
in the public schools of his native town and at the Appleton Academy, in Mount Vernon, 
N. H. He taught school in New Jersey for three years, and one year in Milford and adjoin- 
ing towns. In 1866 he located in Charlestown, Mass., and engaged in the milk busi- 
ness. In a few years he became one of the largest dealers in the State, carrying on 
both a wholesale and retail business, which lie has continued until the present time, with the 
assistance of his sons, who now attend to the details of the business. Since 1S73 Mr. 
Burns has resided in .Sonierville, with his business headquarters still in Charlestown. He has 
had large experience in municipal affairs, having been a memlier of the Sonierville Common 
Council in 1880-81, the latter year its president; of the Board of Aldermen in 1882-83; 
trustee of the Public Library in 1884, and mayor of the city in 1885, 1886, 1887,1888. He was 
the first to suggest the formation of the Mayors' Club of Massachusetts, and was elected its 
first secretary, a position which he held for five years, and was then elected its president, 
serving the full term. Eor several years he was president of the Milk Contractors' Associa- 
ti(jn. He has been a trustee of the Charlestown Five Cents Savings Bank, an institution 
having assets to the amount of over $6,000,000, since 1891. In March, 1895, he was elected 
its treasurer, and at the annual meeting held in the following June he was promoted to the 
office of president. He is also a director in the Monument National Bank, the Charles- 
town Gas and Electric Co., and the Mutual Protection Fire Insurance Co. On November 
17, 1862, Mr. Burns married Elvira Bowers of PJunstable, Mass. By this union they had 
four children, who are now living, Samuel A., Robert, Maud and Paul S. Mrs. Burns died 
January 13, 1885, and on April 27. 1892, Mr. Burns married Sarah A. Miles of Sonierville. 
The Burns School on Cherry street was built in 1886, during his mayoralty, and named in 
recognition of his services. 

Butler, John Haskell, was born in Middletown, Mass., August 31, 1841; he attended 
school in the public schools of Shirley and Groton, and Lawrence Academy in Groton, 
Mass., and was graduated from Yale in the class of 1863. He served in the U. S. Navy 
during the war. Mr. Butler was admitted to the bar in Middlesex County in October, 1868, 
from which time he was associated with Mr. William S. Stearns under the firm name of 
Stearns & Butler, in the practice of the law, until January i, 1892, when Mr. Stearns retired 
from practice. He has resided in Sonierville since 1870, and served twelve years on the 
Sonierville School Board. In the years 1880 and 1881 he was a member of the House of 
Representatives, and in 1884, 1SS5 and 1886, a member of the Executive Council for the 
Third Councillor District. He is warmly interested in charitable and fraternal organizations, 
and has held positions of honor and responsibility in many of them. 

Butters, Charles S., son of Charles and Olive S. (Brown) Butters, was born in Bur- 
lington, Mass. He attended the district school of his native town, receiving only the 
limited education offered in those days, until he was twelve years old, when he worked on 
the farm, attending school the winter term of three months. At the age of nineteen he 
left home and accepted a position in a provision store on .Main street, in Charlestown, 



506 somi:r\i!.li-:. past .wd j'riisext. 

Mass. Here lie reina tui I v • > m.ii>, ami then went tu Kast (.'amhiidse. fullowiiiij llie same 
occupation, lly thrift and pcrseverence he si»>n ac(|uire<i an interest in the l)usiness, 
staying there abuut four years; he then sold his interest and hou-^lit a provision route in 
Boston, which he carried on sixteen years. In January, 1883, he opened a provision store 
in I'nion square, this lily, and in 18S7 still further increased his business by openinjj 
another at the corner of Khn and I'orter streets; both these establishments he is operating 
at the present time. In 1872 he bought a home in Somerville. where he has since lived. 

Mr. Hutters is a number of the I. ( ). O. K., the Knights of Honor, the New England 
Order of Protection, Lnited Order of Workmen. 1". A. .\. M.,aiid Knights Templar. He 
has served the cilv as a member of the t'ouncil two years, and has been treasurer of the 
Hoard of Stewards of the First .\I. 1". t hurch of Somerville for the past sixteen years. He 
m.arried, October 3, 1871, Miss Eunice A. Stahl of Waldoboro, Me. 'I'hey have Jiad six 
children, hve of whom are living. His residence is at 19 Church street. 

Butters, Rev. George Shaw, was bom at Lowell, Mass., where for many years his 
lather was a prominent business man. Mr. ISutters jirepared for Harvard College at the 
Lowell High School, and was the valedictorian t)f his class. He entered Boston University in 
1874, and received his A. 15. in 1878. After graduation he began to prepare himself to teach 
Cireek, and went to the Andover Theological Seminary to thoroughly lit himself for college 
work. In the midst of the second year of this preparation the ministry liecame so attractive, 
he decided that his work was to be in the ministry. He then went to the Methodist i'heolo- 
gical School in Boston, and completed his course in i88i. 

He joined the New England Conference, and had Barre, Mass., for his lirst pastorale. 
After three successful years he became a popular preacher at Jamaica I'lain. He then went 
to Newtonville, where he was greatly beloved, and tlience to Fitchburg, where he com- 
)ileted the most successful term of his ministry. His fifteen years in the New p:ngland Con- 
ference have been marked by unusual success on all lines of church work. He is a frequent 
contributor for the press, and in the religious papers of his own and other denominations 
his name is often seen. As a story-wriler he has also won some reputation. 

Rev. Mr. Butters is one of the most active Methodist ministers in young people's work, 
and succeeded Rev. \V. I. Haven in the presidency of the New England Epworth League. 
He is much in demand as a speaker and lecturer for the various gatherings of the Epworth 
League and Christian Endeavor, and is remarkably well adapted to work of this kind. His 
congregations are characterized by the large attendance of young men, and very few ministers 
can surpass him in popularity with this interesting class. 

Mr. Butters is thirty-nine years of age, and has a wife and two children. Mrs. Butters 
is remarkably well fitted for the exacting duties of a pastor's wife, and has been (me of the 
most prominent factors in her husband's success. She was educated in the l)oston schools, 
and is a woman of refinement and markeil social gifts. 

Byam, William A., son of E/.ekiel and Charlotte (Baleman) Byam of Chelmsford. 
Mass., was burn in that town July 20, 1820. He passed his boyhool and early manhood at 
the homestead, having about tliree months' schooling, winters, and doing farm work or labor- 
ing in the factory of the ehler liyam (ihe originator of the match known by that name) 
during the rest of the year. He locate<l in Charlestown in 1855, and on January i, 1856, the 
firm of Rand and Byam, soap manufacturers, was organized, and it continued the business 
uninterruptedly and successfully from that dale to November i, 1895, when Mr. Rand's interest 
was purchased by Mr. Byam's two sons; but the style of the firm remains unchanged. In 
business and social circles Mr. Byam enjoys the implicit confidence of all who know him. 
Soon after locating in Charlestown he became a member of the Bunker Hill Baptist Church, 
and in 1871 was elected deacon, serving in that office until he removed to .Somerville in 
1S91. His interest and membershi]) in that body are slill continued. March 14. 1841, he 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 50/ 

was married to Mercy M. Parker of Chelmsford, Mass., by whom he had four sons and one 
daughter. Three of tlie sons are now living. The present Mrs. Tyani was Mrs. hmma C. 
Pier^'ce of Charlestown, to whom he was united June 6, 1S70. After a resi.lence ..f thirty- 
three years in Charlestown, Mr. Byam purchased the handsome residence at 1 1 7 Tearl 
street, where he now lives. 

Carpenter, Allen F., was l.om in Waterfnrd, X't.. February 28, 1S42. He was educated 
in the common schools „f that town and in St. Johnsbury .Vcademy. In 1869 he embarke.l 
in the grocerv business in this cty. and has continued in it very successfully until the present 
time. He enlisted in Company II, I 2th Vermnnt Volunteers, and was mustered into the service 
in October, 1862; he served in theArmyof the Potomac, and was mustered out in July, 1863. 
Mr. Carpenter was a member of the Common Council in 1889, and of the Board of Aldermen 
in 1890 and 1891. He was a representative to the General Court in 1893-4- He is a member 
of Charity Lodge, F. A. A. M.; Cceur de Fion Commandery, K.T.; Oasis Lodge, I. O.O. F.; 
WiUar.l C. Kinsley Post, G. A. R.; the L O. R. M., and the Good Fellows. He is also a 
member of the Boston Chamber of Commerce, is president of the Boston Retail Grocers 
Association, treasurer of the New England Grocers' Publishing Co., director of the Somerville 
National P.ank and of the Sprague and Hathaway Co. He is also chairman of the Somerville 
r.oard of Health. 

Carr, Martin W., was born at Laston. Mass., March 9, 1S29, the son of Caleb and 
Chloe ( Parker J Carr, of that place. He is a direct .lescendant of Robert Carr, Governor ot 
Rhode Island in 1692. His education was obtained in the district school and the Adelphian 
Academv at North Bridgewater. He be^^an his business life by learning the manufacture of 
shovels with the Ames Company at North Easton. Thence he went to Attleboro, where he 
acquired a thorough knowledge of the art of manufacturing jewelry. In 1856 he went into 
business for himself at Attleboro. Five years afterward he was offered a foremanship at the 
U. S. Armorv at Springfield, which he accepted, and remained there till 1864, when he came 
to Boston and re-entered the jewelrv inisintss, in which he still continues. Mr. Carr came 
to Somerville in 1864, and served the city two years as a member of the Council and two 
years as alderman, the last year of that service being president of the board. He also was 
a member of the Water Board one year, and has been a member of the School Committee 
since 18S4. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. M. ; Somerville Chapter, R. A.; 
Cceur de Lion Commandery, K. T.; the Central and Mystic Valley Clubs; the Massachusetts 
Charitable Mechanic Association; and Excelsior Council, Royal Arcanum. Mr. Carr married 
Miss Emily Brackett, daughter of Joseph G. and Lucy ( Butterfield ) Brackett, of (^umcy. 
They reside on Craigie street. 

Carvill, Alphonso Holland, M. D., son of Seuall and Famar ( Higgins) Carvill, was 
born in Leu iston. Me., Feb. 4. 1843- He is of English and Scotcli descent; his paternal grand- 
father served in the Revolulionary War, and his father in the War of 181 2. He was reare.l on 
a farm, attending school, sometimes private school, in the autumn and spring till eighteen years 
of age. From 1S58 to 1861 he was for several terms at the Maine State Seminary. In 1861 
he entered the Edward Little Institute at Aul)urn, Me., where he was fitted for college. He 
graduated from Tufts in 1866, taking the degree of A. M. in 1869, in which year he was 
graduated from the Harvard Medical School. Studied for a time in New York, Philadelphia 
and Chicago, and began practice, 1869, in Minnesota, removing to Somerville in May, 1873. 
He was for two years citv physician of Somerville, and was nne of the leaders in the establish- 
ment of the hospital, — being a member of the luiilding committee and on the board of 
trustees from the beginning, as well as member of the medical board and hospital staff. He is 
a member of the American Institute of Homteopathy, Mass. Homoeopathic Medical Society, 
Boston Homceopathic Medical Society, of Mass. Surgical and Gyna-cological Society. He 
was for twelve years a member of S.:)merville School Board, and is greatly interested in the 



3oS som/:r I //././■:, r.isr .lvd /'A' /-.saw/: 

temperance cause and in educational matters, and <lues Ills part in every worthy enterprise. 
August iS, 1863, he married Miss Minna S. (Iray, daughter of John and Kii/abeth (Swanson ) 
( Irav of ('anil)ridge. Ills cliilihen are Sewall Albert and Li/zie Maud Carvill. 

Chamberlin, Mrs. Harriet A., was bom in the I'ine Tree State in 1837. She has re- 
sideil in Massachusetts nearly forty years and in Sonierville since 1S62. ller husband, 
Russell T. Chamberlin, enlisted in KS62 from Sonierville in Co. B. 5th Regiment, and is a 
member of Willard C. Kinsley Post, C. A. R. Mrs. Chamberlin has always been active in relig- 
ious work, and is a member of the Park-avenue .M. K. C hurch. She assisted in organizing the 
Woman's Auxiliary to the V. M. C. A., and is one of its leaiiing members. She has been 
engaged in temperance work in Somerville for thirty-live years, and is a Past Worthy Patriarch 
of Clarendon Division, .Sons of Temperance. She has been a constant worker in the \V. C. 
T. U. since its organization, and was several times elected a delegate to its State Conventions. 
Mrs. Chamberlin assisted in organizing and was the second jiresident of the Daughters of 
Maine. She is a member of the Ladies' Aid Association of the Soldiers' Home in Massa- 
chusetts, and has been interested in the work for ten years. In 1887 she joined Willard C. 
Kinsley Relief Corps, and was its president in 1891 and 1892. .\ gain in membership 
and interest was the result of her leadership. She has served as a representative in several 
department conventions, and visited various jiarts of the State on official work. She has 
made several trips to the South and West as a delegate from the Department of Massachu- 
setts to the National Convention of the W. K. ('. She is also interested in the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows, of which her husband is a member. Her name is on the charter of 
Raniona Lodge, Daughters of Rebekah, and she was its first (lady) Noble (irand. She is a 
member of the Helping Hand Society for the .Vid of the Working Girls' Home in Boston. 
When the Ladies' Aid Association was formed to assist the Somerville Hospital, she became 
an active member, and was its president two years. .She is earnest in all her work, and has a 
zealous interest in the welfare of others. Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlin have one daughter, who, 
since her marriage, has resided in Washington, I). C. 

Chandler, Leonard B., was born in Princeton, Mass., August 29, 1851 ; he attended 
the schools of that town until 1870, working on the farm in the meanwhile. .At the age of 
nineteen he located in Charlestown, and soon bought a milk route in Boston, which he still 
owns. In 1873 he moved to Jaques street in this city, where he continues to reside. Mr. 
( "handler is a memijer of Cceur de I.,ion Comniandery, K. 'P.; Somerville Royal Arch Cha|Her. 
R. -V. M.; John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.; Highland Chapter of the Kastern Star, Winter 
Hill Fncampment, Krminie Lodge, Daughters of Rebekah; and is a Past ( Irand of Paul 
Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F. He is a member of the A. O. U. W. and the N. K. O. P. Mr. 
Chandler was two years in the Common Council, two years in the Board of .\ldermen, and 
was elected a member of the (ieneral Court in November, 1896. 

Chase, Daniel E., senoir partner and founder of the rirni of Daniel F. Chase and 
Company, was born at Warner, N. IL, on the 31st of October, 1829, and is one of the 
well-known family descended from Acjuila Chase, a family which has included among its 
more prominent members such men as Salmon P. Chase, Chief Justice of the Cnited States, 
and .Senator from and Governor of Ohio, liishop Chase of New Hampshire, Judge Horace 
Chase of Merrimack County, and other eminent men who have tlgured in our national history 
for several generations. Mr. Chase came to Boston from New Hampshire in 1S50, and 
entered the firm of Fzra Trull and Company in 1S57. Shortly after the death of Mr. Trull 
in 1864 a new linn was formed under the style of Chase and Trull, the senior partner being 
the late Colonel Ezra J. Trull, who was widely known in military and business circles 
throughout the State. The firm of Chase anil Trull were at one time the largest distillers of 
New England rum in the world. Mr. Chase was .Mderman from Ward 2 in the first City Govern- 
ment of .Somerville, an<l has served on the School Board. In 1S63 he connected himself 



S0MER17I.LE, J 'AST .LVD PRESENT. 509 

with the Masonic fraternity, and rising ([uickly to prominence in that organii^ation, before 
1873 had been elected to fill the highest offices in lodge, chapter and commandery, and is 
to-day one of the best informed Masons in Massachusetts. Mr. Chase was the first High 
Priest of the Somerville ehajiter. Royal Arch Masons. 

Cheney, Frederick E., son of Edward W. and Lizzie M. (Adams) Cheney, was born 
in Nashua, N. H., October i, 1S55. He was educated in the schools of Wilton, X. H., 
graduating' from the high school of that town. After leaving school he entered the employ 
of David Whiting & Sons, remaining about eleven years. He then came to Somerville, and 
in 1880 established himself in the grocery business at the corner of Marshall and Pearl streets. 
He subsequently moved to his present spacious store in Odd Fellows' Building, where he 
carries on a large and lucrative business, his establishment being well known as one of the 
most relial)le in the city. Mr. Cheney was married to Miss Fannie IS. Clark, February 23, 
1885. They have one child and have lost two. He is a member of Paul Revere Lodge, 
L O. O. F., of which he is a Past Noble Grand; Unity Council, Royal Arcanum; Soley Lodge. 
F. A. A. M.; and has f;r six years been a collector in the Arcanum. 

Clark, Elijah C, son of Leonard and Harriet (Clement) (^lark, was born at Fast 
Corinth, Me.. August 23. 1S45. He was educated in the district schools, at the East 
Corinth Academy, and at Pryant and Stratt.m's College. 15angor, Me. He enlisted in the 
1st Maine Heavy Artillery in 1863, and served until the close of the war. He was seriously 
wounded at Petersburg, June 18, 1864, was at the capture of Richmond and Petersburg, and 
at the surrender of Lee's army, Ai^ril 9, 1S65. He came to Somerville in 1872, and served 
the city in the Common Council in 1878 and 1879, and in the Board of Aldermen in 1880, 
1881 and 1882. He was representative to the Massachusetts Legislature in 1883 and 1884, 
and has been a trustee of the Public Library since 1889. He is engaged in the wholesale 
fruit and produce business in Boston, and is a member of the Boston Fruit and Produce 
Exchange ; of the Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M. ; Somerville R. A. Chapter : 1 )e ?vIolay Com- 
mandery, K.T.; Excelsior Council, R. A. ; the Central Club, and Taylor Club of Boston, 
and is president of the Webcowit Club. Mr. Clark married Viola J. i'easlee, daughter of 
Daniel and Elizabeth (Holland) Peaslee of Newton, X. H. They reside on Rush street. 

Clark, Joseph, was bom in Windham, N. H.. March i. 1798, the son of James and 
Mary Clark! He was a veteran of the war of 1812, and was a selectman of Somerville for 
WsQ years. Mr. Clark married Miss Lucy Locke of Charlestown in 1S25, and in 1839 built 
the house on Washington street where he live.l for forty years. He carried on an extensive 
business as a brick manufacturer. He died March 26, 1879. 

Clark, J. Foster, was born at Walpole, N. IL, October 28, 1S32. In 1S40 his parents 
removed to' Alabama, C.enesee County, N. Y. He was educated at the (.'ary Collegiate 
Institute of < )akfield, X. V. In 1852 he came to Boston and entered the employ of 
Jaazaniah (;ross, and came to Somerville to reside in 1854. In i860 he was married to 
Martha B. Cutter, youngest daughter of Mtch and Lucy Hathorn Cutter, one of the oldest 
famihes of Somerville. In 1865 he went to Titusville, Pa., and remained there nine years, 
engaged in the oil business; he was president of the Titusville Oil Exchange three years. 
He was made a Master Mason in Revere Lodge, Boston, in 1857, was one of the charter 
members of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., of Somerville, in 1879, and in 1881 was elected Wor- 
shipful Master; in 1864 he became a member of St. Andrews Royal Arch Chapter of Boston, 
and in 18S1 joined I )e Molay Commandery of Knights Templar of Boston. He is a member 
of the Royal Arcanum, Home Circle, Boston Chamber of Commerce, the Boston Fruit and 
Produce Exchange, Hull Yacht Club and Webcowit Club, of which he was the first president. 
He is engaged in the wholesale flour and produce business at So Commercial street, 

Boston. 

Clarridge, George F., was born in Charlestown, Mass., December 4. 1S52, and re- 



5IO soMi-.Ri/i.u:, r.isT Axn i'ri-.sext. 

Lcivcil liis eilucatioii in the puMic schools of that city. In iJsGS he ciitcreil tlie employ of 
l)r. II. I,, liowker \ Co., of Boston, where lie remained sixteen years learning the busi- 
ness of manufacturing chemist. On January i, 18S5, he formed a copartnership with 
II. Cleveland Heach of I lebron, Cl., now of Maiden, Mass., for the [mrjxjse of manufacturing 
soila-water llavors, fruit juices, etc. They opened a factory at 42 India street, ISoston, and 
three years later occupied the premises 41, 42 and 43 India street. Owing to the rapid 
growth of the business, they were soon obliged to secure larger ipiarters, and are now es- 
tablished in the hve-story liuilding, 52 to 58 Eastern avenue. In June, 1S93, ^ corporation 
was formed under the laws of the commonwealth, and Mr. Clarridge was elected treasurer, 
which office he now ht)lds. Their business extends throughout the United States an<l 
( anada, and into foreign countries. 

.Mr. Clarridge has had ten years' military experience, joining the Charlestown Cadets, 
Comiiany A, Fifth Regiment, M. \'. M., in 1S70, and in 187S was elected first lieutenant. 
In 1S79 he married a tiaughter of Andrew Tower of Charlestown, and has since resided in 
Somerville, where he has been actively identified with the Broadway M. E. C'hurch, is also a 
member of the Board of directors of the \". M. ( '. .\., and for the ]iast two years its 
president. 

Cole, Dr. Anna B. Taylor, was born at Lisbon. \. II. Her parents removed to 
Whitefield, N. 11., when she was three years of age, aiul she was educated in the public 
schools of that town and at the Salem Normal School, .\fter having taught school about 
three years, her attentiosi was calleil to the great opportunities for doing good which the 
medical jirofession affords, and a natural aptitude for the care of the sick led her finally to 
the study of medicine at the Boston L'niversity Medical .School, where she graduated in 1884. 
While a student, in spite of delicate health, she frequently served as night nurse, thereby ac- 
<|uiring valuable experience for her future work. Dr. Taylor practiced medicine six years in 
Charlestown. She moved to Somerville in 1890. In 1894 she was married to Herbert A. 
Cole of Somerville. .She is a member of the Massachusetts State Ilomceopathic Medical 
Society, Boston Medical Society, I lahnemannian Club, -Surgical and Gynivcological Cluij, and 
of the Ileptorean Clul) of Somerville. 

Cox, Edward, was born in Northampton, England, October 12, 1836, the son of James 
and Sarah (I'earson) Cox. His father was a native of Norwich, England, served in the 
English army, and fought in the battle of Waterloo. Mr. Cox came to this country when 
about eighteen years of age, and resided in Quincy; later he engaged in the boot and shoe 
business in Koxbury. In 1857 he moved to Cambridge, entered the real estate business, 
and built quite extensively. He came to Somerville in 1870 and operated in the real estate 
business. He married in Cambridge, in 1862, Miss I*]mma A. Crafts, daughter of Samuel 
and Elizabeth Crafts of Nottingham, England. He resides on Central street. 

Crosby, Cyrus F., son of Captain Michael and Margaret T. (Richardson) Crosby, was 
born in Billerica, Mass., .Sept. 2, 1822. He attended the jiublic schools of that town, and was 
graduated from the Billerica .\cadeiny. When very young, being tin his way to Boston Mar- 
ket with his father, he witnessed the burning of the Ursuline Convent. He remembers dis- 
tinctly seeing the boats running on the Middlesex Canal through his native town on their 
way t(j Boston, where they landed their freight on Canal street; also the first train of cars 
running from Lowell to Boston. He moved to .Somerville in 1851. His business was that 
of milk-contraclor, bringing milk in cars from various towns in New Hampshire and Massa- 
chusetts. He was a charter member, and assisted in laying the corner-stone of the Eranklin- 
street Congregational Church. He was many years chairman of the Parish Committee and 
superintendent of the Sunday-school. He was a member of the last Board of .Selectmen of 
Soiner\ille, and from i860 to 1864 was a member of the School Board. He was married in 
1843 ^'-' Miss Lois E. Lane of I'>edford, Mass. Mr. Crosby resides at 96 Cden street. 




Edward Cox. 




Residence of Hdward Cox. ^6 Central Street. 



SOMERl'ILLli, PAST AND PRESENT. 513 

Cummings, David, son of Samuel and Joanna (Andrews) Cummings, was born in Mid- 
dleton, :\Iass. His boyhood days were passed in that town and in Wenham, in l)oth which 
places he attended school and acquired the rudiments of his education. At the age of ten years 
he took up his residence with his uncle, Mr. Sylvester ("ummings in IJuxford. and attended 
school there in winters and worked on the farm in summers, as most country boys did at that 
time. He remained in IJuxford about live years, and then went to Danvers, where he worked 
at farming in the summers and at shoemaking in the winters. In 1847 Jonas Warren, a 
merchant of long standing in I )anversp()rt, and one well known in Essex County, offered him 
a position in his store which was accepted ; and he continued in it two years, when, in con- 
sequence of a severe illness, he was obliged to resign. He subse(]uently began manufactur- 
ing shoes in a small way for himself, and has continued in the business in company with his 
brother and others until the present time, their output having greatly increased and l)een 
for many years ranked among the largest and most popular of goods in their line on the 
market. Mr. ('ummings is the head of the firm, and it is due largely to his industry and strict 
attention to business that the firm occupies its present high position. 

Mr. Cummings is president of the Somerville Electric Light Company, a director in the 
Cotton and Woolen Manufacturers' Mutual Insurance Co., and one of the trustees of Tufts Col- 
lege and of Dean Academy at Eranklin, Mass. He married Olive Caroline Ross, daughter of 
Deacon James and Lovey (Huntress) Ross of Shapleigh, Me. They reside at 8 Union street. 
Cummings, John Addison, was born in Nelson, X. H., January 16, 1838. His early 
education was obtained in the common schools of liis native town and the .Scientific and 
Literary Institute in New London, N. H.. where he remained two years, teaching school 
during the winter. He then began the study of law, and continued it until the war broke 
out, when he was among the first to enlist. He was commissioned a lieutenant in the 6th 
New Hampshire Volunteers at the age of twenty-three, and served three years in that regi- 
ment in the Army of the Potomac and in the West. He was then made major of the 1st 
New Hampshire Cavalry, and served with Sheridan until the close of the war. After spend- 
ing two years at the West, he returned to Boston and entered the printing business in 1867. 
He took up his residence in Somerville, and became the publisher of the Somerville " Jour- 
nal " in 1871-72. In 1874 he was elected to the Legislature, and served two years. He 
was a member of the I'.oard of Aldermen in 1877 and 1878. In iSSi he was elected mayor, 
which office he held for four consecutive years. His record in this capacity reflects great 
credit upon him. He was faithful, courteous and painstaking, at the same time fearless and 
justly conservative in municipal affairs. He died January 6, 1S87. The Cummings School 
was Iniilt during his mayoralty, and named for him in 1S84. 

Cunningham, Thomas, was born in C.roton, Mass., January 3, 1S15. He came to 
lioston in 1823, and attended the Fort Hill and Hawkins-street schools until 182S, when his 
father died, leaving to his care a mother and five sisters. From that time to the present 
year he was always an active worker in whatever occupation he was engaged. 

After working in various lines of business, he began to follow the sea in April, 1S32, 
continuing until February, 1857, when he took up his permanent abode in Somerville. He 
rose to be captain, and was master of some of the finest ships sailing the ocean. 

Ihe last ship in which Captain Cunningham sailed was the "Ocean Express,"" a clipper 
ship of 2,000 tons, and one of the finest that ever sailed out of Boston. The ship was built 
at Medford under his personal supervision, in 1854, and cost ^98,000. Her first freight bill 
was $83,500 for a trip from Chinchilla Island to Liverpool with guano. 

Upon quitting the sea he went into business in Boston, and in 1857 built the house he 
occupied at the time of his death, on Oak street, in this city. He was elected to the Board 
of Selectmen in i860, and served during and after the war. He was very active in the work 
of raising money for war purposes, and did a great deal for the relief of the snhliers. When 



5 14 St).]/ /■:/,' r //././■:, I'.isr .lvd /-a'awa-.w. 

the war l)ri>Uc i>ut he hccame recruiting otTiccr of the town. lie enrolleil tlie town for tiic 
draft in 1S63. and from 1S62 to 1S72 he paid out all the State aid, beside the financesof the 
"'soldiers' relief fund." lie went to the front three times with soldiers' jjoods, and visiteil 
Washington several times in regard to Somerville's quota. 

J-'roni 1865 to 1S72 he tilled the olhce of town treasurer, and for the succeeding four 
years he was a member of the Water Hoard. For thirteen years he was assessor, and for ten 
years he was overseer of the jioor. 

He was representative in the General (Hurt in 1S76 and 1S78 under Speaker and aller- 
ward tlovernor John 1 >. Long. It was in 1877 that a bill was being considered to aid vete- 
ran soldiers and their families. Some member of the House complained tliat it was opening 
the way for too liberal expentliture in that direction. Cai)tain Cunningham, (ired l)y patriot- 
ism, and remembering the days of the rel>ellion, took the lloor, and advocated opening the 
tlood-gates to assist the veteran, the widow and the fatherless, caused by the war. The ca])- 
tain succeeded in carrying his point, and was warmly congratulated by Speaker Long. It 
was during his second year in the House that he secured the registry of lieeds i)uilding in 
Last Cambridge. 

In 188S he was ap]>iiinted inspector of milk, and inspector of vinegar in 1SS9, holding 
both positions until March, 1896, when he retired t(j private life. L ntil last January he also 
held for several years the important olfice of inspector of animals and provisions. 

Ca])tain Cunningham was very prominent in Masonic and ntlur fraternal organizations. 
He wasa member of Boston Commandery. Knights Templar, John Abbot Lodge. V. \. A. M ., 
and .Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, also of ( )asis Lodge of Otld Fellows. He was an honor- 
ary, and formerly an active, member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of 
Boston, a member of the National Lancers, and the Somerville N'ettran Firemen's Associa- 
tion, and an honorary member of the Somerville Light Infantry. 

His church relations were with the Prospect Hill Congregational Church, where he pro- 
fessed conversion, and joineil the church Easter Sun<lay, 1890. Till the time of his death 
he continued an active member of that church. Many other positions of honor and trust 
were held by the captain. I'or many years previous to his deatli he was a director in the 
Cambridge National Bank. He was also superintendent, treasurer and ])art owner in the 
Somerville Union Hall Company, which organization owns the large wooden block in Liiion 
square, between Somerville avenue and Washington street. 

Captain Cunningham was twice married. His lirst wife was Maria C. Ingalls of An- 
dover ; his second wife was Annie L. daughter of Rev. Wilson and Jane .\. C. Ingalls. nf 
Kindcrhook, N. Y. 

In December, 1895, Captain Cunningham received an apoplectic shock, and from that 
time until his death, which occurred .August 10, 1S96, he was an invalid. His funeral was 
most impressive, and the large attendance of [prominent eiti/ens showed the high estimation 
in which he was held. 

Curtis, Henry Fuller, M. D., son of ("apt. Iknry I-uUer Curtis and Harriet Mi/abelli 
(\\'<)rth) Curtis, was l)orn at Kennebunk, Me., .\ug. 22, iS()4. ( )f pure New England an- 
cestry, his father, of the fifth generation from the original .Vmerican ancestor of that name, 
followed the sea in his early life, and during the War of the Rebellion entered the United 
States Navy and had command of the de?]>atch boat (iamma until peace was declareii. His 
maternal grandfather, the Rev. Edmund Wt)rth of Kennebunk, .Mc., who died in his ninety- 
tirst year, w as a Baptist clergyman, well known in the States of Maine and New Hampshire as 
being prominent in religious and educational work, and also serving as representative to the 
General Court of the State of New IIani]ishirc. He continued his public services up to within 
a few weeks of his death. \\\ address w ritleii and delivered by him after passing his ninetieth 
birthday was published and reprinted, and used in the course of instruction in one of our well- 
known professional schools, an honor which he did not fail to appreciate. 



SO}rKR]'ILLK, PAST AND PRESENT. 515 

Dr. Curtis spent his boyhood in Kennebuni<, attending the puhHc schools of that place 
In the fall of 1882 he entered the Waterville Classical Institute, now Coburn Classical Insti- 
tute, of Waterville, Me., and graduated from it in the class of 1S83. He then entered 
Colby University, and was graduated from it in the class of 18S7. In the fall of 18S7 he 
entered the llarvanl Medical Sch.,nl, and graduated from it in the class ..f 1891. Dur- 
ing the year previous to July i, 1891, he also served as house physician and surgeon at the 
< arney I f ospital, S, ,uth ]5oston, Mass. Dr. Curtis settled in East Somerville in August, 1 89 1 , 
where he has since successfully practiced his profession. On July 8, 1891, Dr. Curtis married 
Jenny Martin Wales of Boston, daughter of the late Martin Wales of Stoughton, Mass., and 
Olive E. Wales. They have two children: Susan Wales Curtis, born Mav 15, 1892;' and 
Alice Elizabeth Curtis, born March 12, 1896. 

Dr. Curtis is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Excelsior Council. Royal Arcanum 
Charlestown Commandery. U. O. G. C, Evening Star Lodge, Knights and Ladies of Honor' 
Somerville Medical Society. Fellow of the Massachusetts Medical Society, and for two years 
served on the IJoard of Censors of the last-named organization. He acts as medical examiner 
for several life insurance companies and benefit orders. Since the organization of the 
Somerville Hospital Dr. Curtis has been connected with it as assistant phvsican and sur- 
geon, lie resides at 145 I'erkins street. East Somerville. 

Cushman, Charles A., was born in Newburyport, March 5, 1847, the son of Charles 
W. and Jane (Hall) Cushman, of that city. His parents moved to Phillips. Me., when he 
was quite young, and he received his education in the public schools of that place After 
leaving school he was employed for a year by the Androscoggin Railroad, now the Maine 
Central, and in 1S70 he came to Somerville. He entered the employ of North, Merriam & 
Co., afterward C. H. Xorth \ Co., and now the North Packing & Provision Co., with whom 
he still remains. Mr. Cushman has been superintendent of the packing-house for the past 
eighteen years. He is P. M. of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.. member of Somerville R 
A. Chapter, ( ),ient Council. R. and S. M.. Oeur de Lion Commandery and Scottish Rite 
Masonry; is also a P. G. of Oasis Lodge, P. C. P. Somerville Encampment, I. O. O F and 
IS a director in the Somerville Savings Bank. Mr. Cushman married, in 1868, Miss Calista 
M., daughter of Daniel and Affie (Wass) Curtis of Addison, Me. Thev reside on Prospect 
Hill avenue. 

Cutler, Samuel Newton, son of Samuel and Sarah Jane (Bennett) Culler, was born 
in Boston, January 25, 1S55. His parents removed to East Somerville early in 1856, and 
have since resided there. He was graduated from the Prescott School in 1869, from the 
high school 111 .873, and from Harvard College in 1877, receiving the degree of A. B. cum 
laude. He obtained several prizes during his college course, and was admitte.l to the famous 
Phi Beta kappa Society. After brief experience in teaching and in western life, in 18S0, he 
was employed by Messrs. Hill and Cutler, dealers in cotton and cotton waste, and became 
a partner of this firm in 1892. November 9, 1882, he married Miss Ella Frances Stearns, 
daughter of Hiram N. and Charlotte A. Stearns of Somerville. He is a consistent member 
of the East Somerville Baptist Church, and teacher of a Bible class in the Sunday school. 

He has always taken great interest in the cause of education, and is now serving his 
eleventh consecutive year on the School Board, having been first elected from Ward i in 
1SS5. He is a member of the \-ermont Association of Boston, of Excelsior Council, Royal 
Arcanum, a trustee of Somerville Savings Bank and a member of its auditing committee. He 
resides at 28 Flint street. 

Dana, N. B., was born at Canton, Mass., March 10, 1846, the son of George H. and 
Sarah A. (Whipp) Dana. He was educated in the pubhc schools of his native town, and 
after completing his education he entered the post-ofifice at Canton as assistant post- 
master. ^^hich position he held four years. He then, in 1877, entered the service of the Bos- 



5i6 soMi:ix\'ii.i.i:. past .wn rRiisiixr. 

tun aiul Ldwcll Railroad as freifjht and passenger train-man, was appointed travelinj^ pas- 
senger ajjent and spare comluctor in 1S79, in iSSi was appointe<i assistant ticket agent at 
the Huston passenger station, and in 1SS4 was appointed ticket agent, which position he 
held until the completion of the new Union Station, June I, 1S94, when that office was con- 
solidated with those of the Eastern and Western 1 )ivisions. 1 le was then appointed city 
ticket agent, which position he now holds, the i)ffice being located at ^22 Washington street, 
Hoston. Mr. Dana was married to Miss Phena B. Robinson of I'litler, Me., < )ctober 15, 1S77 ; 
they have one son, Ralph 15., and reside at 37 Dartmouth street. 

Mr. Dana is a member of Blue Ilill Lodge, F. .\. .\. M., of Canton, Mass.; the Somer- 
ville Royal .\rch Chapter, Orient Council of Royal and Select Masters, and a life member of 
Boston Commandery, K. '1., Paul Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F., Winter Hill Kncampment, Fr- 
minie Lo<lge, Daughters of Rebekah, and has recently been appointed to the important posi- 
tion of firand Marshal of the Crand Lodge, L O. I). F. 

Davis, Joshua H., was Ijum at Truro, November 4, 1814. He was educated in the 
schools of his native town and at the Teachers' Seminary, Andover, graduating in 1S38. 
From 1840 to 1854 he was principal of the Truro Academy, resigning on account of failing 
health. He was afterward secretary of the United States Insurance Company for nine years. 
In 1854 he took up his residence in Somerville, and was for twenty-five years identified with 
the educational interests of our city. lie was a member of the School Board for three years, 
and was elected superintendent of schools in 1866, a position which he filled with great 
ability for twenty-two years. He resigned in 1888, honoreil and beloved by the entire city. 
He was a member of the Legislature in 1889 and 1890. 

No man has had greater influence in shaping and elevating our public school system, 
or has rendered more efficient service in promoting the educational, the moral, and the re- 
ligious interests of our people. The purity and nobleness of his character as a Christian 
gentleman endear him to the thousands who have known him in private and in public, and 
make his life an inspiration and a model. 

Tlie Davis School, on Tufts street, was named for him in 1884. 

Davis, Levi F. S., was born at Truro, Mass., October 3, 1847, the son of Ik-njamin 
and Betsey (.Stevens) Davis, of that town. His education was obtained at the Prescott 
Grammar School and the High School of Somerville. On leaving school he entered upon 
commercial life, and is still engaged in the business of ship brokerage, chandlery and whole- 
sale ])aper stock. Mr. Davis came to Somerville in 1856, and served the city in the Common 
Council of 1 88 1 and 1882, and the Board of Aldermen of 1883 and 1884, the last year as 
president of the board, and represented the city in the Legislatures of 1885 and 1886. Mr. 
Davis is a member of Soley Lodge, F". .\. M.; Oasis Lodge, I. O. O. F. ; and several frater- 
nal organizations. Mr. Davis married Miss Mary .\., daughter of Captain Edgar and Maiy 
(Stevens) Paine, of Truro. They reside on Pearl street. 

Davlin, James F., was bom in Lowell, April 25, 1842, the son of Michael F. and 
Nancy ( McCoUough) Davlin. His education was obtained in the Lowell Grammar Schools. 
At sixteen he learned the plumber's trade in New York. In 1862 he enlisted in the United 
States Navy, serving in the South Atlantic squadron; was promoted to signal quartermaster, 
and attached to the staff of Admiral Dahlgren. He settled, after the war, in Cambridge 
as a master plumlier, and there in 1874 and 1876 was a member of the City Council. In 
1878 he came to Somerville, where his business has since been sanitary plumbing. Mr. 
Davlin has represented Ward 2 in the Legislature. He has served a term as commander 
of Post 139, G. .\. R.; as president of St. Joseph Total Ai)stinence Society; and president of 
the Master Plumbers' .\ssociation of Boston and vicinity, and of the Somerville Celts, lie 
has frequently been a delegate to the national conventions of the Master Plumbers of the 
United States, and is now chairman of the national legislative committee of Master Plum- 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 517 

bt-rs. He is a member of the Kearsarge Naval Veterans; a member of Niagara Tribe, I.O. 
R. M.; the Roval Order of (".ood Fellows, Order of United Workmen, Order of Franklin, 
and the Somerville Catholic Lyceum. Mr. r)avlin married, in 1866, Miss Rebecca A. 
Dow, daughter of William and Rebecca (Edgecomb) Dow, of Lisbon, Me. They reside on 
Kingman court. 

Day, William J., was born in Ipswich, England, January 6, 1859. His mother died 
when he was nine months old. In 1867 he came with his father, Joshua Day, to America, 
finding a residence at Johnstown, N. V. His father and grandfather were both Baptist 
preachers. Mr. Day was converted at the age of fifteen, and baptized by his father in the 
North Raptist Church, Newark, N. J. About a year afterward the family removed to the 
city of Albany, N. Y., the father having accepted a call to become the pastor of the Calvary 
Raptist Church. After a year of ministry the pastoral relations were severed by the hand of 
death. Necessity now compelled the son to shift for himself. Employment was found with 
the East New York Boot and Shoe Co. of that city, with whom Mr. Day remained two 
years. 

It was while in the employ of this company, that Mr. Day received his first impres- 
sions relative to entering the ministry, and making that his life-work. Private studies were 
pursued under his pastor, the Rev. John Ilumpstone. These studies were continued at Col- 
gate Academy and Madison, now Colgate University, at Hamilton, N. Y. Mr. Day left this 
institution in 1885, and accepted a call to become the pastor of the Croton Baptist Church, 
Croton, Delaware Co., N. Y. He was ordained the following year, February 19, 1886. 
This first pastorate lasted five years. From Croton Mr. Day went to Cobleskill, Schoharie 
Co., N. Y. After a two years' ministry he was called to become the pastor of the Winter 
Hill Baptist Church, entering upon his labors May i, 1892. 

Dennett, Nathaniel, who comes of good old New England stock, was born in Ports- 
mouth, N. IL, where his earlier years were passed and the development of his natural 
mechanical and engineering tastes began. Removing to Massachusetts, his technical know- 
ledge very readily secured him suital)le employment, and in 1858 he made an engagement with 
the Union Glass Company, with which corporation he remained about four years. Meanwhile 
the War of the Rebellion had broken out, and in 1862 he enlisted in the Fifth Massachu- 
setts Regiment, serving therewith nine months in the Carolinas, much of that time on de- 
tached service in the line of his special abilities, and he was also on duty, for about three 
months, at the Watertown arsenal, immediately after his return from the South. He then 
re-entered the employ of the Union Glass Company, remaining therein until 1S72, when he 
engaged in the plumbing, gas and steam fitting business on his own account. 

In 1877 he was chosen superintendent of the Somerville Mystic Water Works, and 
has been unanimously re-elected to that responsible position every year since, receiving from 
successive water boards the most unequivocal expressions of satisfaction with the skillful 
and thorough manner in which his duties have been performed. Under his direction the 
water system of Somerville has been almost entirely reconstructed, and to his perception, 
study and ingenuity the city is indebted for numerous innovations and improvements where- 
by the effectiveness of the service, in all its branches, has been materially increased. The 
work of introducing the high service was fully intrusted to his supervision, and so thoroughly 
performed that, for the last six years, the supply of water for protection against fire, street 
sprinkling, industrial uses and building operations has been ample and unfailing, while that 
for domestic purposes has met all the demands of a large and steadily increasing population, 
quite as uninterruptedly. 

Mr. Dennett holds an enviable position among hydraulic engineers, and the high 
estimation in which his opinions on all matters connected with his profession are held is 
attested by the frequency with which he is called into consultation with his contempor- 



;iS SOMERlll.l.i:, J'. IS r .LVD /'A'/:S/:.V/'. 

alii.:. Ill uilicr places, lie is a intmbcr of the Masonic fraternity, Knifjlits of Honor, Koyal 
Arcanum, New Knjjland Water Works Association, ami Willard C". Kinsley I'ost 139, (]. A. K. 
liver since the war he has taken an active interest in everythin<^ affectiny the welfare 
of the veteran sohliers, among whom he enjoys a reputation as a generous and disinterested 
fri end which rests on a most substantial foundation. 

Dickerman, Frank E., son of Ouincy K. and Rebecca M. ( Perkins ) Dickerman, was 
born January, 1S65, in tharlestown, Mass. lie alteniled school in Somerville and ISoston, 
graduatinj; from the lirimmer School of the latter city, and from the Somerville IIij;h School, 
miintaining a hij^h rank throughout in his school work. In 1SS6 he was graduated from 
Harvard College, and from the Harvard Law .School in 1889. 

1 le enteretl the law office of Hale and Richardson, and on the appointment of Mr. 
Richardson to the bench he l)ecame a partner of Mr. Hale, and the firm name became Hale 
and Dickerman, as at present. He has served as president of the .Somerville Common Coun- 
cil, aiul in January, 1896, was chosen president of the Central Club. He is a member of Soley 
Lodge, A. V. an<l A. M., of Somerville R. A. Chapter, and of the L'niversity Club of Boston. 
He resides at 47 Craigie street. 

Dickerman, Quincy E., was born in Stoughton. He was educated at the I'lillijis 
.\cademy and the State Normal School at Bridgewater. Mr. hickcnnan came to Somerville 
in 1870. He has served on the School Committee since 1S73. lie is a member of Soley 
Lodge, V. A. ^L; and Somerville Chapter, K. A. M.. of which he is a past 11. 1'.; and 
Winter Hill Lodge, K. II. Mr. Dickerman has been for many years the highly successful 
and ]iopular principal of the Brinnner Crammar School, Boston. He resides on Central 
sired. 

Dodge, Albert L., the son of Keuhen and ISetsey (Smith) Dodge, was born al ( helsea, 
Vt., December 6, 1831. His education was obtained at Royalton, \t., to which town his 
father removed in 1832. He came to Boston in 1853, and entered the employ of Tarbell 
t\: Dana, wholesale grocers, where he remained eleven years, leaving them to embark in the 
same business under the firm name of Tate, Stone and Dodge. This firm dissolved in 1868, 
when he entered the employ of Haskell ^: Adams, \\ holesale grocers, as buyer and salesman, 
which position he still holds. In 1857 he married Sarah .\., daughter of Charles I), and 
Kleanor (Stinson) Austin of Halifax, X. S. They have had five children, three of whom are 
living. He removed to Somerville in 1863, and in 1872 built his ]iresent residence at 38 
\inal avenue. Mr. Dodge has always taken a deep interest in religious work, and has 
been an cftkial member of the First M. E. Church, of wliich he is now class leader and 
treasurer of the board of trustees. 

Dodge, Seward, was born at Hamilton, Mass., September 12, 1823. At the age of 
fifteen he was apjirenticed to E/.ra Batchelder of ISeverly, Mass., who was a ship and car- 
riage smith and general blacksmith, .\fter serving his full time as apprentice, he engaged 
with John Dodge of South Danvers, with whom he worked eleven months; he then came 
to Charleslown and entered the employ of llittinger & Cook, working at ht)rse-shoeing and 
blacksniithing for nearly two years. On May 13, 1847, ^'^ removed to Somerville and con- 
tinued at his trade of horse-shoeing, wagon building, etc., and he is still engageil at the 
same calling, his large and prosperous establishment at Union sijuare being familiar to mo^-t 
of our residents. Mr. Dodge has served the city in both branches, having been a member 
of the Common Council two years, and a member of the Board of Aldermen the same length 
of time. He is a member of John .\bbot Lodge, K. A. .\. M.; of New England Lodge No. 4. 
f)dd EtUows and Encampment; of the Royal Arcanum and Knights of Honor. He was lor 
a long |)eriod an active member of the National Lancers of Boston under Captains Dear- 
liorn, Slade and Kenny, and is justly i)roud of his connection with that famous corps. 

Donovan, Michael T.. was liorn at Conconl, \. 11., Noveml)er 17, 1S57, son ol 




Michael T. Donovan. 




Cyrus F. Crosby. 



S0MIiRl7LLE, PAST AXD J'RESENT. 52 1 

Michael and Nancy (Collins) Donovan. He was educated in the public schools of his 
native city, completing the course in the high school at the age of sixteen years. Inniie- 
diately after leaving school, he entered the office of the "New Hampshire Patriot," one of 
the oldest newspapers in the country, then ow^ned and edited by the late Colonel E. C. 
ISailey, who at one time owned the" Boston Herald.'' He remained at newspaper work until 
opportunity was given him to enter the railroad field. He came to Boston, eighteen years 
ago, to enter the service of the Boston lS; Lowell ivaihoad, and steadily advanced to the 
position of Chief Clerk of the Ceneral Freight Department. In September, 18S7, he was 
appointed Assistant General P'reight Agent of the Concord Railroad at Concord, N. H., which 
position he held for one year and resigned to accept a responsible position in Boston with 
the Canadian Pacific Despatch, a fast freight line operated by the Boston .S; Maine Railroad, 
and the Canadian Pacific Railway. In February, 189.1, he was promoted to the position of 
Assistant to the General Freight Agent, and August i, 1892, was appointed General Freight 
Agent of the Boston & Maine Railroad, which position he now occupies. He resides at 
^^'est Somerville. 

Duddy, Robert, son of William and Catherine (Alger) Duddy, was born at the "North 
End" in Boston, February 17, 1843. After receiving his education at the Elliot School, 
he learned the cooper's trade, and subsequently the produce business. He served through- 
out the Civil War in the Eleventh Massachusetts Battery in the Army of the Potomac, and 
was in all the engagements of Grant's army in 1864 and 1865. ^t the close of the war he 
was engaged in the trucking business in Boston, in which he continued for twenty years. 
He came to Somerville in 1881, and ten years later established the horse-boarding and sale- 
stable on Pearl street. He was a member of the Common Council of Somerville in 1886 and 
1887, and of the Board of Aldermen of 1888 and 1889, serving as chairman of some of the 
most important committees under Mayors Burns and Pope. 

Mr. Duddy represented the .Seventh Middlesex District in the Legislature of 1894, being 
honored by the " largest vote ever given a Somerville representative." He was on the 
committee to represent the State at the dedication of the Robert (!. Shaw monument, and in 
1895 "'^s, with the late Governor F. T. Greenhalge. a delegate at the dedication of the 
National Cemetery at Chattanooga and Chickamauga. Under Ex-Mayor Wm. L. Hodgkins. 
he was appointed superintendent of the Health Department, which position he resigned last 
September to accept the office of deputy sheriff and court officer for Middlesex County. Mr. 
Duddy married Miss Mary E. Corey, daughter of James and Julia (Long) Corey of Boston, 
and has a family of three daughters and one son. They reside on Bond street. Mr. Duddy 
is a member of Temple Lodge, F. A. A. M.; Signet Chapter, R. A. M.; Orient Council, R. & 
S. M.; Capt.-Gen. of Cceur de Lion Commandery, K. T. ; Paul Revere Lodge, I. (J. ( ). F.; 
Monument Council, R. A. He is an ex-president of the Winter Hill Club, and of the 
Eleventh Massachusetts Battery Association. At the semi-centennial celebration in this city 
in 1892 he was appointed colonel of the second division by Gen. Thomas Wentworth. 

Dunklee, Daniel Denney, son of William A. and Mercy (Joy) Dunklee, was born in 
Boston, June 23, 1S43. He was educated in the public schools of Boston and Charlestown, 
and in the West Brattleboro, Vt., Academy. March 29, 1864, he enlisted from Boston in the 
U. S. Signal Corps, in which he served for two years. After his return he was employed by 
Poor, Towne tV Co., druggists. Later he was for seventeen years with .Matthew P. Elliot in 
the hat business. He established himself in that business in 1873, continuing in it until 
1883. In 1885 he entered the employ of G. C. Dunklee & Co., his father being the head of 
the firm. In 1892 he purchased the business and has continued it to the present time at 
113 Blackstone street, Boston, under the name of Dunklee >.\: Co. In 1870 he married Miss 
Jeannette R. Whitehouse, of Topsham, Me. They have had three children, of whom Flor- 
ence and Lorimer are now living. His son Fred W. died .August 26, 1892. Mr. Dunklee 




• lULiUS A. DlRliLL. 



S0MER17LLE, FAST AM) PKJiSIuVT. 523 

is active in the Treniont Temple Church and Society, lie is a member of Post 139, G. A. R. ; 
Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M.; Royal Arch Chapter; and Orient Council, all of Somerville; and 
of De Molay Commandery, of Boston. He is a 32d degree Mason in Massachusetts Con- 
sistory. He has lived in Somerville ten years, and his residence is at 9 Oakland avenue. 

Durell, Rev. George W. A history of Somerville would be incomplete without a 
tribute to " Father Durell," as Rev. George Wells Durell was lovingly called by old and 
young. Mr. Durell was burn in Kennebunkport, Me. He graduated from Bowdoin Col- 
lege, and was at once elected principal of Limerick Academy. After teaching four years, 
he entered the Theological Seminary of Virginia, to prepare for the work to which he devoted 
his life. He was ordained in Brunswick, Me., by Bishop Burgess. His marriage to Miss 
Jane B. Moulton, of Topsham, soon followed in the'same church, and, full of hope and cour- 
age, he w^ent to his new labors on the frontier of the State. At Calais he founded the most 
easterly parish of the United States, and Isuilt a church of unusual beauty, where he remained 
for eleven years, serving all the time up(jn the Schocjl Board of the city. He was then 
chosen rector of Grace Church, Bath. 

In the fall of 1S66 he came to Somerville, having been called to Ennnanuel Parish, and 
on the 1st of July, 1869, he became rector of St. Thomas' Parish, and continued in that 
]iosition until his death, August 24, 1S95. Under his direction the St. Tliomas' Church was 
l)uilt, and that it was entirely free from del)t when he passed away was owing to his earnest 
work and loving self-sacrifice. Probalily no person was better known to the peoj)le of 
Somerville generally than Rev. Mr. Durell. He was to be seen daily upon the streets, and 
his familiar figure, always recognized in any company, will never be forgotten; he had a 
kindly greeting and a cheery smile for everyone. 

Mr. Durell always took great j)leasure outside of his parish duties in his close associa- 
tion with the Freemasons of Somerville and vicinity, and was honored by them in manv 
ways. He was chaplain of John .\bbot Lodge, the Royal Arch Chapter, and the Council of 
Royal and Select Masters. With the first of these he served twenty-nine years, with the 
second from its organization, and he was for a long time prelate of the commanderies of 
Knights Templar o\ Chelsea and Charlestown. With his other duties he found time to serve 
the city upon the School Board thirteen years, and when the schoolhouse was built at the 
corner of Beacon and Kent streets, it was named for him, and it now stands as a perpetual 
monument to his memory. He was a man strong in his faith, tender-hearted, kind and 
sympathetic, considerate and unselfish, and in all his relations with the world he was gentle, 
gracious, and of an afiectionate spirit. As a churchman he was broad-minded and consid- 
erate in his dealings with the clergy and laymen of all other denominations. To all who 
worshipped the living God and believed in a Christ crucified for man's redemption he ex- 
tended the right hand of fellowship, and was ready to work with them for the universal 
brotherhood of man. His work on earth is finished, but as long as the spire of .St. Thomas' 
Church points heavenward just so long will it speak of the love and gratitude of his fellow- 
men. 

Durell, Julius A., son of Henry and Nancy (Mixer) Durell, was born in lioston, [an- 
uary 9, 1S44. He was educated in the schools of Paris, Me., to which town his familv 
removed when he was (|uite young, and in the Hebron, Me., Academy. After leaving 
school he worked at farming five years, and in 1S69 came to Somerville. where he has since 
resided. In 1S77 he emljarked in the hardware and plumbing business on his own account, 
establishing himself at 277 Broadway. He remained there three years, when he erected the 
building at Xo. 309 Broadway, and has continued there until the present time. His busi- 
ness is (luite large and extends to places far remote from this city, Mr. Durell's work being 
well and favorably known. He has been twice married, his first wife was Emma .A.. Jordan, 
an.l his second, Mrs. M. Ella Hartshorn. Mr. Durell is a member of Paul Revere Lodge, 




BVRON EAMES. 



S0MER17LLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 5-5 

and Winter Hill Encampment, I. O. O. K: Erminie Lodge of Daughters of Rebekah; Har- 
mony Council of the Home Circle; O. O. C. W., etc. He has been treasurer of the Winter 
Hill Baptist Church for the past ten years. 

Durell, Dr. Thomas Moulton, son of Rev. Ceorge Wells and Jane Berry (Moulton) 
Durell, was born at Calais, Me., October 2, 185S. He is of the Durell family that came from 
the Island of Jersey in 1678 and seltle.l in Arundel, now Kennebunkport, Me., where his 
father was born. His parents niove.l to SomerviUe while he was a child, and his early edu- 
cation was received in the schools of that city, graduating from the high school. Enter- 
ing the Harvard Medical School at tlie age of eighteen, he was graduated in 1879. He studied 
for six months in Europe and one year in the Connecticut General Hospital in New Haven. 
In 1881 he commenced practice in SomerviUe. and in 1882 was appointed city physician, 
which office he held till 1889. In the year 18S7 he was appointed, by Gov. Robinson, Medi- 
cal Examiner for the Second District of Middlesex County, and was reappointed in 1893 by 
Gov. Russell. He is now professor of legal medicine in the Medical School of Tufts College, 
a member of the Medical Board of the Hospital, and has been on the Board of Health of 
SomerviUe. From 18S4 to 1888 he was surgeon of the first battalion of Cavalry of Massachu- 
setts militia. He is a member of Massachusetts Medical Society, and the Massachusetts 
Medico-Legal Sociey. He is a past master of John Abbot Lodge of Masons, a member of 
SomerviUe R. A. Chapter, C.eur de Lion Commandery, K. T., of Charlestown, and a past 
district deputy grand master of the sixth Masonic district. He is a member of Oasis Lodge, 
I. O. O. F., member of the Central Club, SomerviUe, and the University Club of Boston. He 
has been a member of the School Board of SomerviUe for many years, which office he now 
holds. On June 3, 1886, he married Miss Alma L. Brintnall of Charlestown. Their children 
are Thomas and Ralph Brintnall Durell. Dr. Durell resides at No. 23 Bow street. 

Durgin, Asa, was born in Limerick, Me., on the loth of April, 1831. In 1849 he 
came to Massachusetts, and for several years was in the employ of Gage, Ilittinger & Co., 
the well-known ice dealers. In 1858 he went into the ice business on his own account in 
Cambridge, and he has built up a large and successful enterprise, being favorably known 
over a wide territory for strict and honorable dealings. 

Although not a politician in the usual sense of the word, his abilities have been recog- 
nized bv his fellow-citizens, and from 1876 to 1883 he represented them in the City ( luvern- 
ment to their entire satisfaction, serving two years in the Council, and five years on the Board 
of Aldermen. He has been a resident of SomerviUe for thirty years, and is much respected 
by all who know him. 

Eames, Byron, son of John and Caruline F. (Day) Fames, was born at (Iroveton, N. 
II Nov. 2, 1859. After three vears' study in Charlestown schools, he attended the St. Johns- 
bury, Vt., Academy, from which he graduated in 1877, taking a full scientific course and fitting 
for college. He was engaged with his father in the lumber trade about ten years, and at the 
age of twenty-six came to Boston and embarked in the milk business, in which he has con- 
tinued until the present time. October 30, 18S6, he married Miss Mary Richey of ( iroveton, 
N.H., and thev have one son. Mr. Eames is engrossed with his business, and has had no time 
to devote to so'ciety an.l club affairs, the only SomerviUe organization that he has joined feeing 
the Winter Hill Chib, of which he is one of the directors. He resides on Sycamore street. 

Eberle, Philip, was born in Baden, Germany, June 22, 1S33. At the age of fifteen 
he left school to learn the shoemaker's trade, and three years later, after obtaining permis- 
sion from his guardian, his parents having died when he was a child, he came to this coun- 
try, landing in New York in July, 18^1. He subsequently removed to Boston, and in conse- 
quence of his inability to speak our language was obliged to work for very small wages, his 
■ first vear's salary amounting to only thirty dollars. After spending five years in Cambridge 
he came to SomerviUe in 1857, opened a shoe-store on SomerviUe avenue, opposite the 



326 soMiJun.i.i:, /'.IS J- .ixn /•h'j:s/:x/: 

Bleachery oliice. In 1867 he \v;is a iiK-mhcr >>f the association tlial was fnrnrjd tu erect the 
Union Ilall Cu. Buihhnj;, and when the structure was completeii, he, in June, 186S. estal)lishetl 
in it the shoe store in which he has continueil business until the present time. In 1SS4 he 
erected the so-called Kherle Building in Union square, in which Eberle Hall is located. Mr- 
Eherle has been connecteil with the Somerville Savings Bank since its origin, and has been 
on the investment committee of the bank for the past seven years. lie married Miss Cather- 
ine Murtugh, and their family consists of two sons and one daughter. They reside at 47 
Columbus avenue. 

Edgerly, John S., was born November 30, 1S04, at .Meredith, X. II., and, like many 
others, early left iiis home in the country to get a better living in the city of Boston. About 
1S36 he moved to Winter Hill, then a i>art of Charlestown. He was always interested in 
]niblic affairs, and was one of five who were instrumental, by their earnest zeal, in having 
what is now Somerville set off from Charlestown as a separate town. lie was for fourteen 
years one of the Board of .Selectmen and most of that time its chairman. He served on the 
School Board, and as an Overseer of the Poor in those early days, and "no night was too 
dark or roail too bad for him to start with his lantern and shovel to break out any 
place that his horse could not get through, whenever there was need." He died January 20. 
1S72. The I-'.ilgerly School, named in his honor, was established in 1871. 

Elliot, Charles D., was born in Foxboro, Mass., in 1837, son of Joseph and Zenora 
(Tucker) KUiot. His ancestors were early settlers of Taunton. His great-grandfather, 
Joseph Kliot, a revolutionary soldiei*, served in the siege of Boston, and in campaigns in 
New Jersey and in Xew York against Burgoyne. Another ancestor, John Hicks, was a 
member of the "Boston Tea Party," and was one of the "men of Cambridge " killed in the 
i)attle of I-e.\ington. His great-grandfather Tucker's family were among those who t1e<l 
from their burning homes in Charlestown during its destruction l)y the British. Mr. KUiot 
came to Somerville in 1846, and was educated in its grammar and high schools, and in the 
" Hopkins Classical" at Cambridge, — studied civil engineering in ofiice of W. 15. Stearns 
(late Pres. Fitchburg R. K.) and Daniel A. .Sanborn, and was engaged in railroad and other 
engineering, on surveys of Somerville, and upon Charlestown Water-Works, until he was 
appointed by the War Department in 1862 as Topographical Kngineer and assigned to 19th 
.\rmy Corps, serving under Generals Banks, Franklin, (irover and Asboth, in the Teche, 
Port Hudson, Sabine Pass and Re<l River campaigns and in Florida, on reconnoissance and 
in charge of construction of field fortifications, etc. In 1863 he married Kmily J., daughter 
of Judge Hyer of Louisiana. From 1866 to 1868 he was engaged in a manufacturing 
business. He was in partnership with W. A. Mason, C. E., from 1869 to 1872; in 1871-1872, 
engineer of Arlington Water- Works; was city engineer of Somerville in 1872-1874 and 1875 ; 
on surveys and estimates for Cape Cod Canal, 1881-1882 and 1884; and in 1894-1895 he 
laid out the proposed " Mystic \'alley Parkway" He is engaged in professional practice, and 
is agent for estates of J. ( '. .\yer in Somerville and Brooklinc. He is a member of the American 
Society of Civil Engineers, of the N. E. Historic Genealogical Society, Sons of .Vmerican 
Revolution, and f>ther orders. Resides at 59 Oxford street. 

Elliot, Miss Mary E., was born in Somerville, February 2, 185 1, and is a daughter of 
the late Joseph and /enora (Tucker ) Elliot, and a sister of Charles D. Elliot. Her ancestors 
on both sides were among the earliest settlers of Massachusetts. She is a lineal <lescendant 
of two revolutionary soldiers, Josejih Eliot and John Hicks, both of whom died in the 
service. Her grandfather, Stephen Tucker, was a schoolboy in Charlestown at the time of 
the battle of Bunker Hill, and was among those who lied to Medford for safety during the 
siege, in later years he settle<l in the (ireen Mountain State, and was the first town clerk 
of Mount Holly, Vt. Miss Elliot's father was one of the founders of the First Univer- 
salist Church of Snnurvillc. She attended the Prospect Hill School, and later a private school 




Russell C. Elliott. 




s, 



SOMERl'/LLE, I'. 1ST .L\'J> /'KESENT. 529 

in Foxboro, where she hved from 1862 to 1S66. During a residence in ( 'ambriilge she was 
active in temperance work, and continued her interest cm returning to Somerville, where 
she has resided the past twenty-five years. She has given addresses in behalf of the cause 
in many parts of the State, and has served as secretary of local, county and state organizations. 
She was president of the Somerville W. C. T. U. in 1877. In 1878 she assisted in forming 
Willard C. Kinsley Relief Corps, and served as is first president, continuing in the office six 
years. She was a delegate to the national convention at Minneapolis in 1884, and has at- 
tended every sul)se(|uent national convention, serving several years on the press commiitee, 
and as assistant national secretary at San Francisco. In July, 1S85, Miss Elliot was appointed 
secretary of the Department of Massachusetts W. R. C, which position she still holds. 
This department has supervision of one hundred and seventy corps, whose work is conducted 
on a systematic basis, similar to that of the (Irand Army of the Republic. She is a writer 
for the press, and was chairman of the history committee of the Department of Massachu- 
setts W. R. C, under whose charge a volume of four hundred pages has recently been pre- 
pared. Miss Elliot has delivered six memorial-day addresses, and has sjjoken in nearly every 
[lart of the State at jiatriotic gatherings. She is one of the original members of the Ladies' 
Aid Association of the Soldiers' Home in Massachusetts, and has served on the Board of 
Directors and as a vice-president. She is secretary of Bunker Hill Chapter, Daughters of 
the American Revolution, and is a memlDer of several local societies. 

Elliott, Russell C, was bom in Concord, N. H., June 5, 1842, son of Captain Enoch 
B. and Jane (Bowers) Elliott of that city. He attended the ( Uiver Grammar and High 
School of Lawrence. Mass., where he spent his boyhoo<L His war record is a remarkable 
one. Enlisting a private, he attained the rank t)f Captain in the Third Massachusetts Cav- 
alry by an unequalled service in his regiment. Participating in all the battles the regiment 
was engaged in, he was ten times wounded,' and carried a Minie ball twelve years. In the 
engagements of Sabine Cross Roads, Jackson, 15ayou Rapides, Snaggy Point, (^Id Oaks, Natchi- 
toches, Piney Woods, La., and at Winchester and Cedar Creek, \'a., he performed such ex- 
ceptional acts of gallantry the officers of his regimental association, his old commander and 
other comrades petitioned the War Department for a proper recognition therefor, and Con- 
gress awarded him a Medal of Honor for " distinguished gallantry."' At Jackson, La., he 
led twelve men in a charge through the enemy's cavalry and infantry lines, and brought away 
four prisoners with only one man killed. At Bayou Rapides, again surrounded, he led his 
whole company through two lines of the enemy, both armies cheering the dashing act. He 
is in Inisiness at 43 Milk street, Boston, and has made great improvements in electric heating, 
lighting, power and telephoning apparatus. His opinions on patent rights "seem phenome- 
nal " to quote others, having been invariably sustained when submitted to court decision. 
Captain Elliott married Miss Julia Greer, daughter of Andrew and Jane ((jreen) Greer of 
Boston. Mrs. Elliott was a most lovable and accomplished lady and a remarkable vocalist. 
She died April 18, 1891. Through Captain Elliott's efforts many houses have been built and 
much real estate improved in Somerville. He came to live here in 1878, and has resided at 
the corner of Perkins and Florence streets since 1883. Though taking an active interest in 
politics, Mr. Elliott never aspired to official position, and many times has refused appointive 
oftices. 

Elston, Abraham A., the son of Henjamin and Hannah (liartktt) Elston, was born in 
St. John, X. B., April 15, 185S. He has resided in St)merville since 1867. He started busi- 
ness as a contractor, and has taken down more than 2,000 Iniildings, including many of the 
largest and most famous of the older Boston buildings, such as the Tremont House, Tremont 
Temple, Boylston Market, etc. He was married June id, 1886, to Miss Mary E. McCann. 
They have three c'nildren. He has served in the City Council of Somerville, and is a mem- 
ber of the Young Men's Democratic (.'luli, the Knights of ('ulumbus and (lood Fellows. He 



_-:;o SO.]/ /-.'A' I //././:, /'. /.vy .i.\7> /'K/:s/:.vj\ 

has a large varil and storehouses at the comer of Si\th street ami I'.roadway, Cambriil^'e. 
His Boston office is at 160 Devonshire street. He has resided at 25 I'reston street since 

I S90. 

Farrell, Michael F., was horn in the city of Kilkenny, Ireland, September 13, 1.S4S. 
1 le came to New \\>rk C ity, where he was educated in the pu]dic schools. He came to Somer- 
ville in 1S64, and finished his education at Boston College. Mr. l-arrcU studied law in the of- 
fice of Kdwin .S. Hovey in Boston, and was admitted to the Middlesex Bar in 1871. From 
1S74 to 187c) he was a member of the Somerville School Board. In 1877 he was admitted 
to the bar of the Circuit Court of the United States. When Judge Brown resigned his office 
of Special Justice of the Tolice Court of Somerville in 1888, Mr. I-arrell was re(|uested to ac- 
cept the position, but declined in favor of Charles C.. Pope, who was appointed. After the 
death of |udge I'ope in 1893 he was appointed, and was unanimously confirmed by the 
( ouncil. He married Klizabeth M. Treanor of Boston in 1S74. 

Fitch, Nathan A., son of Nathan and Louisa (liurnham) litch, was born in Bedford, 
Mass., 1830. He was educated in the public schools in that town, and at New Hampton. 
N. H. He came to Boston in 1852, and entered the employ of Hervey & Moore, provision 
dealers, on I.everett street, where he remained for seven years; he subse(|uently entered the 
Faneuil Hall Market, where he is at present located, engaged in the poultry business. Soon 
after coming to the city he united with the Baldwin-Place Church, but shortly after removed 
to the Baptist Bethel, then under the pastorate of the Rev. Phineas Stowe, where he has 
been for thirty-eight years actively engaged in the work of the church and Sunday-school, 
having served the school thirty-six years as its superintendent, and eighteen years as treasurer 
of the church and society. He is trustee of the Phineas Stowe Sailors' Home, the Ilowanl 
Lodge, I. O. (). v., and tiie N. K. C). P. He is also a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. \. M., 
the Boston Fruit and Produce Fxchange, the Chamber of Commerce, the Fxcelsior Council, . 
K. A., the Knights of Honor, and A. O. U. W., Beacon Lodge, Boston. He served the city 
in the Common Council in 1882, and Board of Aldermen in 1883 and 1884. Mr. Fitcli 
married Calista F., daughter of Reuben and Beatrice (Beard) Tarbell of Rin<lge, N. II. 
Tliev have resided for twenty-two years on P'ranklin street. 

Fitz, N. Everett, was bom in Charlestown, I'ebruary 24, 1S30, tlie eldest son of .\bel 
1-it/, who carried on the grain mills at Charlestown Neck until 1840, and who removed to 
.Mt. Vernon street, Somerville, in 1846, and served on the Board of Assessors with John C. 
Magoun. N. Fverett Fit/, entered the employ of W. B. Reynolds & Co. on Commercial Wharf. 
Boston, in 1846, and in 1850 went to Charlestown as bookkeeper for his brother-in-law, 
Nathan Tufts, Jr., at the mills previously operated by his father. In 1857 he married 
Harriet A., daughter of John C. an<l Sarah A. Magoun, and moved to the house now occuined 
!)y him on Broadway, Winter Hill. In 1864 he embarked in the coal and wood business in 
( liarlestowii and still continues in tlie same at 541 Main street. 

Flewelling, Dr. Douglas S., was born in Clifton, K.C., N. P.. , in 1S61, and is a grand- 
son of the late Hon. W. P. j-lewelling, Surveyor-General of New Brunswick and a colonel 
of the militia. In the .American Revolution his maternal ancestors fought on the side of the 
loyalists, while his paternal grandmother was a New York lady of revolutionary stock. He 
was educated in public schools and the Normal College, from which he was graduated at the 
age of eighteen. He was principal of C.raded School in Kingston, second master of Sussex 
High School, organist in Trinity Church, and was identiiied with the Eighth Regiment of 
Cavalry. He was three years principal of P.rigus Academy, Newfoundland, and during his 
vacations improved the opportunities for sport with rod and gun. He lecture.l in Schmidt's 
PIducational Institute in New York one year. After a three years' course in the University ol 
New York he was graduated as physican and surgeon. He spent one term in the Lying-in- 
Hospital, and took private course with Dr. C.ibbs of New York, a specialist in the treatment 




Douglas S. Flewelling, M. d. 




A. Ward Follett, M.D. 



SOME/U'ILLE, PAST AXD PRESEAr. 



533 



of diseases of women, llie doctor is fond of field sports, especially tennis and cricket. He 
is a niemi)er of the I. ( ). O. F., the A. and I. O. K. of M., and Fellow of the Massachusetts 
Medical Society. He is located at Xo. 9 Carlton street, and has an extensive practice. 

FoUett, Dr. A. Ward, was born in Royalton, Vt., January 27, 1858, the son of Annie 
and Arvilla ( Dodge) Follett, now of .Siiaron, \'t., and direct descendant of Robert Follett of 
Salem, Mass.. born in 1625 and died in 170S. His early education was obtained in the 
schools of his native town, afterv/ards graduating from the Randolph State Normal School. 
He taught several years in the Vermont schools, and graduated from Dartmouth Medical 
College in 1881. Dr. Follett served as assistant physician in the Butler Hospital, Provi- 
dence, R. 1., from 1 88 1 to 18S6, when he moved to Cambridge, Mass., and in 1888 com- 
menced the practice of his profession in Somerville. He is a member of Somerville Royal 
Arch Chapter, R. A.:\I., also member of the Vermont State Medical, Somerville Medical and 
Massachusetts Medical Societies. In 18S6 he married Carrie B., eldest daughter of Charles 
S. (love of Cambridge. They reside at 48S Broadway. 

Foote, Edward, was born in Lee, Mass., in October, 1824. He was educated in and 
graduated from the Lee Academy in 1S42, and was a teacher in the public schools six 
seasons — winters. In 1S44 he came to Boston and entered the employ of A. A. P>azar, 
father of the late Douglas Frazar, then engaged in the East India trade, but returned to Lee 
in the spring of 1845, where he remained several years in the farming and lumliering busi- 
ness. In 1851 Mr. Foote bought a farm in Smithtown, Long Island, N. Y., and during 
twelve years of his residence there was engaged in handling stock, which he bought in the 
north and west, and sold in the markets of Long Island. In 1864 be came to Somerville 
and entered into partnership with the late George Skilton and his son George C. Skilton, 
under the firm name of Skilton, Foote & Co., for the manufacture of what is well known as 
the Bunker Hill brand of pickles. Since the death of Mr. Skilton, Sr., there have been 
associate<l with him. under the same firm name, George C. Skilton and Edward H. F"oote. 
For a term of six years, from 1877 to 1882 inclusive, he was a member of the Somerville 
Water Board, four years of which he was fits president. Mr. Foote is the oldest living 
charter member of the Winter Hill Lodge, K. H., and has been a member of the Broadway 
Congregational Church of Somerville for more than a quarter of a century, and during the 
last twenty years one of its deacons. He married Mrs. Emily Chapman, daughter of 
David an<i Eliza (Jones) Curtis of Curtisville, and for twcnty-hve years has resided at 419 
Broadway terrace. 

Forster, Charles, was born in Charlcstown, June 13, 1798, and died there September 
I. 1866. He was engaged in mercantile pursuits until 1856, when he retired from active 
Imsmess. He hekl many public oflices in Charlestown. and was the representative at the 
time the Convent was burned. In 1845 he removed to Somerville, and lived until 1863 at 
the cinner of Sycamore street and Broadway. As a citizen of Somerville, he was always 
interested in the public welfare. The city is largely indebted to him for the trees which now 
adorn the streets of Winter Hill. In 1854 the Forster School was named in his honor. 
One who knew him well said of him — " He occupied a place second to none in the hearts 
and affections of the people of Somerville, and left behind him a reputation which any man 
might envy— the reputation of a man who, by the purity of his life and character, his 
sweetness and kindliness of disposition, his unostentatious benevolence, the years of a long 
life devoted to charity towards tlie poor and suffering, had endeared himself to all who knew 
him, and gro\\n deeji into their hearts." 

Frazar, Douglas, was born in Duxbury in 1836. He attended the schools of the town 
and Dixwell's private school in Boston, from which he graduated. His father was a prosper- 
ous State-street merchant, owning ships that sailed all over the globe, and while every 
opportunity was open to the boy to enter a mercantile life, he chose the sea as a profession. 



334 somi:r\ii.I-i:, past .lv/> /■a-a.sv-w. 

He made his first voyage as a Imy bcfurc the mast, going amuinl the wurld, receiving a 
salarv of S2.00 a month. Tliis trip occupied fourteen months. He advanced rapidly through 
the grades of seamanship, ami when but twenty-one years of age he sailed from India 
Wharf, hound for China, as master of the liark Maryland, fitted out for him liy his father. 
.Arriving in China in 1S59, a good i>rospect for business was opened to the young man, which 
he decided to accept, ami he became the junior partner in the house of l-razar iK; Co., now 
one of the largest of the American East India houses. At the breaking out of the ( ivil 
War, Captain Kra/.ar came home, oflering his services to dovernor .\ndrew of this State. 
.\s no cavalry regiment was at that time recruiting here. Captain Kra/ar received autograph 
letters of introduction to Governor Seymour of New York, from (iovernor Andrew, Charles 
Sumner, Henry Wilson and Josiah (luincy, and went to New York, where he took part in 
• luelling the draft riots, and was, for his services, made major of the Thirteenth New York 
Cavalry by dovernor Seymour, having gained the position on his own merits and without 
the use of his letters. During the war Major Frazar was promoted to the colonelcy of one 
of the South Carolina colored regiments, with Yice-l'resident \Vilson's only son as his 
lieutenant-colonel. .\t the close of the war he was brevetted by the President as brigadier- 
general of volunteers, "for faithful service during the war." 

Soon after, by jiersonal request of Yice-l'resident Wilson, General Fra/ar went to 
Virginia on a special mission to the freedmen. He remained two years, establishing schools, 
and otherwise assisting the colored people in their new positions as citizens. In 1870 he 
re-entered business with his father. Captain Frazar, but in the crisis of 1873 their property 
was swept away. Mr. Frazar was married in 1872 to Mae Durell, daughter of J^ev. and .Mrs. 
Cieorge W. Durell, and after a period of residence in Boston they came to Somerville to 
make their home. Mr. Frazar was widely known in Somerville, both on account of his 
public .service and his literary attainments. He held the position of city auditor for sixteen 
years, and was for fifteen years clerk of the Common Council. Besides these offices, he held 
other positions of trust. During the long period of sixteen years of his connection with the 
city departments, he was for eleven years joint auditor for the Boston & Maine antl the 
Fasten) Railroads, and also for live years confidential clerk to General Manager James T. 
Furber. As a writer. General Frazar gained considerable prominence. He had been a con- 
tributor to" Harper's Magazine,'" the "Youth's Comi^anion," and other high-class periodicals. 
He was the author of three books: "The Log of the Maryland," " Perseverance Island," 
and " Practical Boat Sailing." He also wrote several plays, and as a lecturer made an 
enviable reputation. He had studied in Paris, and during his extensive travels had crossed 
the Atlantic forty times. While in China in i860, General Frazar was present at the capture 
of Pekin by the aUied French and English forces. He was the first American, unattached 
to an embassy, to enter Pekin. After the war he continued to take great interest in military 
alTairs, and was for two years major of the Tigers, a well-known Boston company of infantry. 
He was at one time a member of Williard C. Kinsley Post. ( len. Frazar died February 20, 
1896, leaving a wife, Mrs. Mae D. Frazar, and two sons. 

Frazar, Mrs. Mae Durell, was born in Calais, Me., but came to Somerville when very 
young will) lici father, Rev. ( ieorge W. Durell. She was educated in our schools, and is an 
example of the value of our public school system for a good foundation in intellectual life. 
In 1872 she married Gen. Douglas Frazar, Mrs. Frazar carefully cultivated her taste for 
study, and ac<|uired able command of her pen. Her interest in social an<l home life induced 
her to start an enterprise, which under her admirable executive ability won pronounced 
success. It was a periodical entitled "The Home Life," and she secured for it a circulation 
of 20,000 subscribers. In 1887 Gen. Frazar «lesireil to visit Mexico with some intention of 
making a prolonged residence in that country. Mrs. Frazar accompanied him, surrendering 
"The Home Life " to other hands. She still, however, retained her hold on the pen, and con- 




Frederick C. Fuller. 



536 somj:ki/llj:. j'.isj .i.vj) /'A'/:s/:.v/: 

iriliuted interesting ami instructive articles to tlie Huston papers; tins she did fur something 
uver a year, (jn her return to Sunierville her own experience in travel and her quick 
appreciation of a travelers annoyances and necessities i)ronipted her to undertake — what 
no other wonian has done so continuously and successfully — a number of European tours; 
these tours were rendered delightful hy her carefully arranged routes, and by her own per- 
sonal oversight of those who patronized her enterprise. Mrs. Fra/.ar has crossed the Atlan- 
tic eighteen times in furthering her tours. It might well be thought that such business 
cares would entirely engross ones energy, but, on the contrary, she made extensive notes 
on her travels, and has given lectures upon the cities and countries she has visited, 
replete with interesting information, careful descriptions and characteristic humor. Hesides 
lecturing in many of the cities of the United States, she has written and published poems and 
sketches of travels, and has prepared, and has ready for the press, a unique guidebook of 
foreign lands, containing legends, historical facts and much general information, all of which 
have been gleaned and selected with care, and will prove of great value not only to the 
tourist, but to the home reader. 

Her social life is as brijad and intense as her literary and business life. She was one 
of the founders of the Ileptorean t lub, is an honorary member of the daughters of Maine, 
ami a member of the Xew England Women's Press Association. .Ml these absorbing cares 
do nut decrease her interest in others. She is attentive to the needs of those who deserve 
charity, and her gifts are wellnigh without stint. .Mtogether she is a remarkable woman. 
No woman has ever had the conduct of such large excursion parties. No woman can be 
more diligent in deed, in speech or with i)en. Her knowledge of books is extensive. She 
has facile use of several languages besides her own, and it goes without saying that she has 
friends in all parts of the world. 

Somerville is to be congratulated in having such a citizen, a woman who is at once an 
incentive to, and an example of, all that is most praiseworthy in true womanhood. 

Fuller, Frederick C, son of John and Martha T. Fuller, was born in Rockland, Me., 
lune 2, i8b)4. NN hen six years of age he moved to Xorridgewock, Me., where he remained 
until twenty years of age, being a farmer's boy. He then removed to Lewiston, Me., and was 
working in the Androscoggin Mills, when he enlisted in the Seventh Maine Battery Light 
.\rtillery. At the close of the war he went lo Lowell and worked for the Boott corporation, 
where he stayed three years, and then went to Wilton, N. II., and learned the carpenter's 
trade, remaining four years, going thence to Nashua and afterwards to Boston. Mr. Fuller 
came to Sonierville in 1870, and after serving as journeyma'n and foreman for several car- 
penters went into business in iSSi for himself, and he has erected a number of important 
buildings, and has remodeled the City Hall several times. In November, 1895, ^^^^^ being 
five years in the hardware business, he was appointed inspector of liuildings and has proved 
himself most admirably fitted for the position, issuing over 600 permits last year, and revolu- 
ti(jni/-ing the pluml)ing and building ordinances. 

Mr. Fuller married Emma J. Law of Lowell, and two suns were born to them. Mrs- 
Fuller died recently. Me is a memi)er of Pentucket Lodge, .'\. F. and F. A., .Somerville 
Royal .\rch Chajiter, t'uurde Lion Commandery, Orient Council, Paul Revere Lodge, Unity 
Council, and the ( Ynlral Club. He lives at 41 Dartmouth street. 

Fuller, Stephen W., the son of Stephen and Dorcas Fuller, was b>jrn in (harlestow n. 
Mass., at " Craft's Corner," January I, 1836. Commencing at the Primary School on Bow- 
street, he afterwards attended the Training Field School under the late .Stacy Baxter, and the 
Harvard and High Schools, leaving the latter in 1854, to earn a living in the lumlier business 
at the Prisun Point lumber yard. He remained at this place until 1858, when he went to 
Charlestown Neck on the (Ireenleaf Wharf. In i860 he and Mr. John F. Ayer commenced 
business together as lumijcr dealers, and the tirm cuiiiinued uiilil 1875, when Mr. I'uller took the 




Stephen W. Fuller. 




Tj 






CD 

o 



SOMERVILLE, PAST .LVD PRESENT. 539 

whole business, occupying the same office for thirty-six years. Finding that the old quarters 
were not large enough for his increasing trade, he removed to 4S2 Rutherford avenue, Charles- 
town, where he is now located and carrying on a very large lumber business, the railroad 
cars running into his yard direct from the mills of all parts of the country. In i860 Mr. 
Iniller married Miss Lavina P. Turner of Lyme, N. IL; they have one daughter, who is mar- 
ried to Mr. Charles E. I'richard of this city. In 1S60 Mr. 1^'uller remcwed to Somerville. 
In 1S73 he served the city as a memlier of the Common Council, and in the following year 
was a member of the Board of Aldermen, and chairman of the Board of Health and the 
Highway Committee. At the expiration of his two years" city service he retired, and devoted 
himself entirely to his business. His residence is at 151 Walnut street, in the house which 
he erected for his own occupancy in 1861. 

Fulton, Justin D., D. D., pastor of First Baptist Church, was born in Earlville, 
N. Y., March i, 1828. His father. Rev. John J. Fulton, was descended from North of Ire- 
land stock, and his mother, Clarissa Dewy Fulton, found a birthplace in Creat Barrington, 
Mass., and was heir to many of the shining .pialities of the Puritan element. In 1836 he 
removed with his parents to Brooklyn, Mich., and at the age of eleven united with the 
Baptist Church. 

Ministers in Michigan, as a rule, were poor, and Mr. Fulton was not an exception. 
When eighteen years of age, the son, who up to this time had studied as best he could 
when not employed on the farm, hung up the harness one night, and on not taking it down 
next morning was asked the reason why. "Am going to college ! " "How?" "Don't 
know, but I start this morning." At once he began preparations, and in the fall of 1847 
entered the University of Michigan, and remained there three years, paying his way by 
working for his board during term-time and by selling books in vacation. At once he took 
a foremost position. In his Junior year he was elected president of the college literary 
society, an honor generally reserveil for students of the Senior Class. In his fourth year 
he entered the University of Rochester, that he might take Hebrew and be ready to enter 
the Theological Seminary in advance. He was graduated from the University of Rochester 
in 1851, and entering the Theological Seminary, he remained through a part of the second 
year, when, urged by the Rev. Spencer H. Cone, D. D., and William II. Wyckoff, LL. D., to 
take charge of a Bible Union paper in St. Louis, Mo., he went there in December, 1853. 
The paper sprang into a large circulation. In it he printed the " Roman Catholic Element 
in American History," which at once arrested attention and excited opposition. Its 
ringing words called attention to the man, and twenty-four men and women, meeting in 
Biddle Market Hall, having had their attention directed to him, invited him to preach for 
them. 

It was to him a providential call. He was ordained in May, 1854, over the Tabernacle 
Baptist Church. He loved to preach, but the characteristics which made him a success as an 
editor interfered with his success as a minister. He was bold, radical and outspoken. The 
young editor had given himself to the ministry years before, providing God opened the way. 
Now that the door was opened, he entered it with avidity. The committee in charge of the 
paper objected to the arrangement. The editor replied, " I beheve that I am called to 
preach the gospel. If editing your paper interferes with this duty, I can give up the pajxr, 
but I will not give up the ministry." He began to preach with great acceptance to the 
people, and with unalloyed pleasure for himself. In 1855 the church became so large and 
the paper so important that Rev. James Inglis, of Detroit, came and took the pastorate of 
the church, becoming assistant editor of the paper, while the editor of the paper remained 
associate pastor of the church. This was in April. In May at Palmyra, Mo., the stock- 
holders of the paper met, and it was resolved " that it is not enough that the editor of the 
Gospel Bainnr be a gentleman and a Christian: he must believe that slavery is right /j-r.sv 



540 somi:r\/li.i:, i'ast .ixn rRi-.si.xr. 

ami licft-nd it." < >iic man, burn in New Hampshire, vutcii fur tlic rcsulutiuii; no une voted 
against it, and the resignation of the editor was ollcred and accepted. The committee in 
charge of the ]>apcr lived in St. I.ouis. The editor-elect, in his first issue, made an attack 
upon the man who built up the paper; the committee saw it, stopped the press, conhscated 
all published, and never permitted- an issue of the Compel Baiiiur under the new regime. 
Almost i)eiiniless, he turned his back on this city of his love, accepted the invitation of his 
brother, I )r. S. J. Kulton, then residing in Toledo, O., to make his house his home until 
he had prepared for the press "The Roman Catholic Element in American History," and 
while engaged in this work received an invitation to supply the jiuljjit in Sandusky, Ohio. 
The result was a call to the church and the securing of a helpmeet in the person of Miss 
Sarah E. Norcross, who for twenty-seven years was the companion of his life and the mother 
of his four children. In 1S59. after a successful pastorate, he removed to Albany, N. Y., and 
became pastor of the Tabernacle Baptist Church, and spent the ensuing four years in a verv 
successful ministry. In December, 1863, he was for the third time invited to the charge of 
the Tremont Temple Church. His success in Boston was immediate. He began with liftv 
members, and when he left it, ten years later, the membership had reached over a thousand 
and the income over ^23,000. In 1873, he liecame pastor of the Hanson-place Baptist 
Church of lirooklyn, X. V. In 1S87, he resigned liis pastorate in Brooklyn, and i)ecame 
the pioneer of the great A. 1*. A. movement. 

Dr. Fulton is a prolific writer, a forcible lecturer, and a stirring prcaclier of the gospel. 
He has been greatly blessed in his ministry, and has won to himself a great companv of 
friends, who are loyal as any man could wish. Among the more notable of his works are 
the following : "The Roman Catholic Element in American History," already mentioned; 
" Life of Timothy (Gilbert, the Founder of the Tremont Temple " ( Boston) ; " The True Wo- 
man,"' " The Way ( )ut," " Show Your Colors," " .'^am Hobart, the Railroad Engineer."' 
"How to win Romanists," " Washington in the Lap of Rome,'" "Why I'riests should Wed," 
"Spurgeon our Ally," etc., etc. A tract from his pen on the Sabbath has had a circulation 
of over one hundred thousand copies. In all the great reforms of the day he takes an active 
interest. The above sketches of Dr. Fulton's life are from the pens of the Rev. Robert S. 
McArthur. I). 1)., of Xew; York, Bishop (Gilbert Haven, and others. 

Furber, William H., was jjorn in Boston, October i, 1828, the son of Thomas and 
Sophia (Monroe; Furber, of that city. His education was obtained in the public schools. 
Mr. Furber came to Somerville during its existence as a town, and here exercised a large in- 
lluence. He was a member of the Board of Aldermen for 1872 and 1S73, one of the trustees 
of the I'ublic Library for 1873, 1874, 1875, and mayor in 1874 and 1875. '!»-' delivered the 
centennial address on the history of Somerville in iS7(). Mr. Furber married .Miss Joanna, 
daughter of F.enjamin and Klizal)eth (Boynton) Parker. I hey now reside in Newton. 

Galpin, Mrs. Barbara. Among New England newspaper women Mrs. Barbara Gal- 
imi. of .Somerville, enjoys the distinction of being one of the brightest and best eijuipped in 
the profession. She is best known to the majority of Somerville people, perhaps, as the edi-' 
tor of the woman's page of the " Somerville Journal," with which paper she has been connected 
for nearly a score of years, and as the originator of the Heptorean Club, and treasurer of that 
organization since its inception. ]5ut these are not the only, nor even the principal causes 
of her distinction. Through her long connection w ith the " Journal," beginning as compositor, 
and being promoted to proof-reader, bookkeeper, and now having the direct charge of all 
the details of the large and growing business of the " Somerville Journal " newspajier and job 
printing establishment, she has had a remarkably varied experience, and has gained an in- 
sight into active newspaper management such as is enjoyed by few women. Her woman's 
page in the " Journal " is easily one of the best and most readable published. In its columns she 
has rlone much for the social and home sides of life, and also in assisting local charities. 



"73 



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Joseph J. Giles. 



SOMERl'/LLE, PAST AA'D /'RESENT. 543 

She has cuntrihuted frei|uently to other papers, and her hriUiarit letters of travel and grace- 
ful poems have been widely read; in short, she is a thorough, all-round newspaper woman. 
With all her excellent business aliilitv Mrs. ( uilpiu is eminently modest and womanly, and her 
social life is peculiarly i>rilliant and charming. One published volume has come from her 
pen, '• In Foreij^n Lands," an entertaining description of travel in Europe. Besides her con- 
nection with other organizations, Mrs. Galpin has for several years been the efficient treasurer 
of the New England Woman's Press Association; she was also one of the founders of the 
"Daughters of Vermont," is an associate memlier of the " Daughters of New Hampshire," 
and is an active meml)er of the American Authors' (iuild, of New York City. 

Giles, Joseph J., was bom in Somerville near the site of the present Union S(iuare, in 
March, 1S42. his birth being tlie tirst in the town after its incorporation. His early education 
was obtaineil in the Somerville schools, and it was completed in the old High School building 
whicii is now the City Hall. In April, iShi, after the opening of the rebellion, he went to 
the front with the Somerville Light Infantry, Co. I, 5th Regiment, and participated in the 
tirst battle of Bull Run. In August, 1S62, lie enlisted for three years in the Somerville Guard, 
Co. E, 39th Regiment, and was conunissioned as its lirst heutenant. He subsequently served 
eleven months as an aid-de-camp to Gen. Martindale, the military governor of Washington, 
D. C. In 1S91 and i8i)2 he represented his district in the Legislature, serving on the com- 
mittee on insurance, and administrative boards and commissions. He has been engaged 
in the real estate and insurance lousiness in Union scjuare since 1S76, and is well and favor- 
ably known by the residents of Somerville, his i)usiness and social acipiaintance beinc^ un- 
usually wide and varie<k His residence is at 34 Putnam street. 

Oilman, Charles E., was born in Shrewsbury, Mass., January i, 1809, son of Joseph 
and Lucy ( Sawyer) Gilman. His father died when Charles was an infant, and his widowed 
mother was alone left to provide for him. Coming to Medford he received his education in 
the public schools, and was then apprenticed to learn the baker's trade; this was found un- 
congenial to his inclinations, and he received a position on the ISoston and Lowell Rail- 
road, in which he sold the first ticket from Boston to Lowell. He remained with the road 
several years, and then secured a position in the New England Bank of Boston, where he 
remained until Somerville became a city. Mr. Gilman was town clerk of Somerville dur- 
ing its entire existence as a town, and when it became a city he was elected city clerk, 
w hich position he retained until his death, which occurred at the home of his daughter, Mrs. 
(leo. C. Skilton, at Bedford, Mass., Feb. 22, 188S. On the fortieth anniversary of his service 
as town and city clerk he was tendered a ban(|uet, Monday evening, January 2, 18S2. On 
this occasion he was presented with a watch, chain and seal, the presentation speech being 
made by ex-Mayor Cieo. A. Bruce. Mr. Gilman came to Somerville about 1838, purchasing 
a property of several acres and house on Walnut street. Here he resided for 45 years, his 
wife and son during that period passing away. In 1883, and until his death, he made his 
home in Somerville and Bedford with his son-in-law, George C. Skilton. 

GirOUX, Aim6 E., son of Joseph and ( 'ecilia ( iiroux, was liorn in the Province of Quebec, 
( )ctober 6, 1851. He was educated in the celebrated Jacques Cartier Normal School of Mont- 
real, and in the Lancaster, Mass., High School. In 1881 he embarked in the wholesale milk 
business in Boston, handhng at that time about forty cans; the business has steadily in- 
creased since that time, and he is now regarded as one of the largest and most reliable dealers 
in this vicinity, his daily sales amounting to a'oout one thousand cans. Mr. Giroux came to 
Somerville in 1883, and resided on Columbus avenue two years; he then removed to Rox- 
bury, and returned to Somerville in 1895. I^^" "lairied Miss Marguerite MacNally of Bos- 
ton in 1885, and they have two children. They reside at 67 Pearl street. 

Glines, Edward, son of Jacob T. and Sarah A. (Washburn) ( ;iines, was born in Somer- 
ville, August 13, 1849. Graduating from the High School in 1869, he entered the fancy gro- 



;44 so.]//:a'I7/j./:\ I'- is J- .1X1) /'A'/:.s7:xy\ 

ccrv store i>f II. T. I'arkcr \ Co.. of ( harlestowii. where he remained two or three months. 
1 le then undertook an express business on his own account lietween Winter Hill and I'.oston. 
carrvin" it on for two vears. In 1S72 he went into his father's estal)iishment as a clerk, be- 
j^inning practieallv at the bottom, and goi^g throufjh every tlepartment of the business, 
which was in tea. colTee and sjiices. until, Hnally, after buying an interest in the business, he 
succeeded to it when his father retired in 1S80. .Mr. (iline^ was married to Frances ( .. 
.laughter of /.iba 1'. and Nancy L. (Henderson) Hanks, of Augusta, Me. Ihey have no 
children. Mr. < dines has always felt an intense interest in politics, and has been prominent in 
many of the battles that have been fought in this city, and in state and national contests be- , 
sides, lie was a member of the Common Council in 1878. was re-elected in 1879 and made 
president of that body. In 1881 and 1882 he was elected to the House of Representatives, 
and did valuable service on important committees and in debate. In 18S4 he was elected a 
member of the State Central Committee, and served for two years both on the executive and 
liiiance committees. 

In the fall of iSS() Mr. (dines was nominated for the Senate, and was elected by a lar.Lje 
majoritv; he served on some of the most important committees, and did important work; 
he was re-elected to the Senate in 1887, and was chairman of the railroad committee and of 
the committee on Federal relations, etc. Since his retirement from the .Senate in 1888, Mr- 
t nines has not taken a public part in politics, but he has not lost his interest in jiublic af- 
fairs. He has always been connected with all enterprises to benefit the community, and fore- 
most in charitable works. I le was interested in the formation of the Central Club, of which 
he was president in 1894-95; ^^'^^ ^ member of the Webcowit Club, is a life member of the 
Somerville Imjirovement Society, and is now a member of the Winter Hill Club of this city, 
and the Central, Middlesex, New England and Taylor Clubs of I'.oston. lie has held oflices 
in the Somerville Volunteer Fire Department, in the Odd Fellows and Knights of Honor, and 
is a Knight Templar. In addition to his other services to the city he was one term an over- 
seer of the poor, and as president of the Common Council was <x o//iii<> a member of the 
School Committee in 1879. He was elected a delegate to the .Minneapolis Republican Con- 
vention, was a presidential elector in 1892, and was a can<lidate for Congress in that year. 

Glines, Jacob T., son of Jacob and Jane Cdines, was born in Moultonborough, N. II., 
fuly 20, 181 7; he removed to Charlestown when a young man, and married, in 1840, Miss 
Sarah Washburn, of Kennebunk. Me. Mr. (dines was always identified with the prosperity 
of Somerville as a town and city; he was a member of the last IJoard of Selectmen; was 
chairman of the first Board of Aldermen, and member of the City (lovernment for a number 
of vears subsequently; he represented .Somerville two years in the lower house of the Gen- 
eral Court; early in life he carried on an extensive brick business, and for many years was a 
prominent coffee merchant in Boston; he was a charter member of Bunker Hill Lodge, I. 
( >. O. F., of Charlestown; he died August _^. 18S2. In recognition of his services to the city 
the Jacob T. Cdines School was named in 189 1. 

Gookin, Abijah B., son of Thomas Thwing and .Mary (Brown) Gookin, was born at 
Watertown, Mass., September 7. 1825. He attended the schools of Watertown until he was 
fifteen years of age, and when nineteen he entered the High School of Fitchburg. He em- 
barked in the provision business ( )ctober i, 1847, '^"'' ^'^^ since continued in the same line and 
in the original location at 370 Ckmimercial street, Boston. He moved to Somerville in 1873, 
and still resides in the house that he purchased at that time. Mr. ( lookin has been twice 
married, his first wife being Miss Sarah F. Monroe of Cambriilgeport. and his second .Miss 
l.ouisa M. I.oring of lioston. He has served the city one year in the Common Council and 
two years in the Board of .Mdermen. He is a member of the Chand>er of Commerce and of 
the Fruit and Produce Exchange of Boston. He is also a member of the St. John's Lodge, 
I'. A. A. M. Mr. Gookin is a deacon in the lnion-S(|uare Baptist Church, and has been very 
earnest in his efforts to promote its welfare. His residence is at 1 5 ( irand \iew avenue. 








Edward Glines. 




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SOMERVILLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 547 

Gordon, Emma J., was iHirn in Boston, hut her early childhood was passed in I.ynn, 
where her people still reside. She was educated in the public schools of that city, and at- 
tended the Salem Normal School with the intention of becoming a teacher in the public 
schools. Her inclinations, however, led her to choose another profession for her life's work, 
and in 1884 she entered the Training School for Nurses at the City Hospital, Boston. She 
applied herself with great zeal, graduated in two years, and for six months after was the head 
nurse of one of the wards. She then took up the work of a district nurse, and among the 
IKior (if the "North End" of Bostcm gained much valuable knowledge. Later she was 
a private nurse, tilling the important position in very many critical cases where unremittmg 
attentions were absolutely necessary to ensure the patient's recovery. For two and a half 
years, just previous to being called to take charge of the Somerville Hospital, she was matron 
of the Sunny Bank Home for Convalescents in Watertown. When the Somerville Hospital 
was established in 1893, Aliss (lordon was selected as one eminently qualified to HU the im- 
portant position of matron, and the confidence that was felt in her abihty to fill that post has 
been fully confirmed by her three years' service; in fact, much of the success that has attended 
the institution has been due to her able management. Increased responsibilities that have 
come upon her with the gradual increase of the number of inmates, and the corresponding 
increase in tlie expenditures and in the enlarged corps of nurses, have been met with firmness 
and rare good judgment, and the fidelity to the interests of the hospital that she has at all 
times displayed, have been acknowledged by every one. Miss Gordon is often invited to de- 
liver lectures on hospital work, but is compelled to decline them on account of the pressure 
of her duties in our city institutions; at home, however, she has given on several occasions 
informal talks before societies whose sympathies are enlisted in the hospital's behalf, and her 
words of advice and instruction have been of great value to the cause in whicli she is so in- 
tensely interested. 

Gould, Aaron H., son of John Gould, was born in Cum'oerland County, Nova Scotia, 
January 15, 1865. He attended the public school of the town and learned the carpenter's 
trade. About 1884 he was persuaded by his uncle, of F:ilsvvorth, Me., to locate there, and in 
charge of a force of fifty men he rebuilt for him the Hancock House. Later he planned and 
built a costly residence for H. B. Mason, mayor of the city, and other important buildings 
for many well-known citizens; the Swiss Shallia, Manor Inn, and many beautiful residences 
at Sullivan, Me., the growing summer resort managed by a company of which the late ex- 
(jovernor A. H. Rice of Massachusetts was president. Passing about four years in the then 
booming sections of the South, Mr. ( iould had many contracts for the erection of manufactur- 
ing-buildings, residences, etc., in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Fort Payne, Pell City, and other places 
— one an important business-block for Hon. John Maxwell of Winchester, Mass., another a 
savings-bank building for Col. J. \V. Spaulding of Boston. 

Since his return from the South he has planned the Drouet Apartment Hotel, the H. 
W. P. Colson Apartment Hotel, City Stables and Central Fire Station, all in Somerville; the 
Ward 5 Engine-house and Ward i Schoolhouse, Cambridge, the latter costing $40,000. 
Plans for the addition made this year to the Glines schoolhouse, Somerville, were prepared 
by him, also for a new engine-house in Dedham, Mass. His work has been of such a char- 
acter as necessarily to come under the observation of such men as ex-Mayor Hodgkins, 
Wm. H. Gray, superintendent of buildings, Cambridge, Hon. E. P. Cook, Portland, Me.. 
Hon. Hannibal Hamlin, Ellsworth, Me., and others equally well known. Mr. Gould is a 
man who by careful attention to what he has undertaken has been able to accomplish re- 
sults that speak more forcibly than words of his abilities in his chosen vocation. His Bos- 
ton office is at 42 Court street, and his studio is at his residence, corner of Columbus and 
Stone avenues, Somerville. 

Gray, Rev. Andrew, A.M., D.D., was born at Sussex, N. B. After the usual course 












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Residence of Aaron H. Gould, Columbus and Stone Avenues. 



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Jaa/.aniah Gross. 



SOMERl'/lJJi, J\IST .LVD PRESENT. 55 I 

of study in the schools at home, he became a scholar in the St. John Model School, and later 
pursued his studies at Sackville, \. ]!., at Windsor, X. S., and at the Boston School of Lan- 
guages. He was ordained i)Oth deacon and priest by the Kight Reverend Dr. IJnmey, late 
Lord ])ishop of Nova Scotia, and spent the first three years of his ministry at f,iverpool, X. 
S., as curate to the late Rev. Dr. Nichols. He then accepted a unanimous election to the 
rectorship of the adjoining parish of Port Medway, where he remained for five years. 

His first charge in this diocese was the Episcopal City Mission of Boston, of which he 
was head from 1876 to 1879, and in which he was the successor of the late Rev. Dr. E. M. 
v. Wells of blessed memory. The Mission bad suffered much by the " (".reat Fire " of 1872, 
both by the destruction of St. Stephen's Church and Mission House, and liy the breaking up 
and disorganization ofits work. During .Mr. C.ray"s mcumbency the work was reorganized, 
a house for a headquarters was purchased, and ( Irace Church, South Boston, was built. 

hi 18S0 he accepted the rectorship of St. Luke's Church, Chelsea, which he held for 
seven years. Here, too, he did an excellent work. The church building was repaired and 
improved at a considerable exjiense, and many articles of furniture, etc., including a church 
liell, were provided. 

After resigning St. Luke's, Dr. (Iray traveled extensively abroad, and gathered mate- 
rials for a forthcoming work on " The ( )rigin and Early History of Christianity in Britain." 
After his return from Europe he gave much attention to literary work, lectures, etc., and 
doing ministerial duty on Sundays. During thistime he took charge of '• Christ (Episcopal ) 
Mission,'" Wellesley, then in the feebleness ofits infancy. Kor eighteen months it continued 
under his care, during which time it developed into the present St. Andrew's Parish. 

He is the author of a number of pamphlets and of one or two bound volumes, all of them 
on subjects connected with his profession. Some of these have reached a second or third 
edition. He has also been a frequent contributor- to both religious and secular papers. St. 
Stephen's College, Annandale, N. \ ., conferred the degree of '• D. D." upon him Honoris 
( 'luisa in 1S94, in recognition of his literary labors and of the service he had thereby rendered 
to the church. In December, 1895, he ^^as elected to the rectorship of St. Thomas' Church, 
in succession to the late Father Durell. He accepted the election, and at once entered on 
his work with earnestness and zeal. 

Grimmons, Charles A., son of Charles and Cordelia (Covell) Grimmons, was born in 
Middleton, Conn., January 19, 1859. He was educated in the public schools of Boston, graduat- 
ing from the English High School in the class of 1876. He began his business life as book- 
]<eeper for Pitkin Bros., and after fifteen years' service he succeeded them with Edward F. 
( himmons and William T. Hight, under the firm name of The Boston Furniture Supply Co., 
of which Charles A. is the senior partner. They do an extensive business as importers, manu- 
facturers and jobbers in hardware and supplies for the cabinet, drajiery and upholstery trades 
at 102 Union street, Boston, their trade extending throughout this country and Canada. Mr. 
(Irimmons was married June i, 1S87, to Katie M. Aldrich, and they have one son; they re- 
side at 72 Thurston street. Mr. ( Irimmons is a memi)er of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., of the 
Central (lull of Somerville, an<l of the 999th Artillery .Association of Charlestown. 

Gross, Jaazaniah, son of Isaac S. and Betsy (hoss, was born at Truro, Mass., Aprils, 
1824. He removetl in 1840 to Boston, and went to work in the provision store of George 
( 'arlisle, 241 North street, with whom he remained a year, and then went to work for a Mr. 
Humphrey in Quincy Market. When nineteen he went into the boot and shoe business for 
himself, and started with the meagre sum of S150, which he borrowed of his father. Some 
idea of his persistency and perseverance can be formed by the statement that the youth did 
a business the first year amounting to $14,000, and in the thirteen years he was alone he 
saved 345;000. He then took in two Blanchard brothers, liut the concern was dissolved in 
two years to protect Mr. Gross' interests. He then went to work in his father's provision 




Emma Prichard Hadley. 



SOMEN r/LLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 553 

stall in Quincy Market, and when his father died, in 1873, he assumed charge uf the business, 
which he continued until 1S95, when he sold out and retired. 

In 1S50 Mr. (h-oss married Harriet Augusta, daughter of Foster Clark of Walpole, N. 
II.. and about three years later he built the house at the corner of Perkins and Mt. Vernon 
streets. They had three daughters: Mary, who married Charles 1!. Stockwell of Port Huron, 
Mich.; Laura C, now Mrs. C. M. .Shove of Fall River; ami Harriet Augusta, who resides at 
the (jld homestead. Mrs. Gross died in 1874. 

Mr. Gross is a member of the Masons, Royal Arcanum, Knights of Honor, and Boston 
Chamber of Commerce. 

Guild, Charles H., was born at Roxbury, June 1 1. 1825, the son of Chester and Har- 
riet (Fiske) Guild. He received his education in the public schools of Roxbury. supple- 
mented by a course at Chauncey Hall School in Boston. He followed the occupation of his 
father, having obtained a thorough practical knowledge of the leather business. In this he 
continued many years. He became a resident of Somerville soon after its inccirporation as 
a separate municipality, and served the town in various public capacities, having been a mem- 
ber of the Board of Selectmen and School Committee, president of the Board of Trustees of the 
Public Library, and he was three times elected to the Legislature. He held other positions of 
trust and responsibility. In all public, religious, educational and patriotic movements he 
was a zealous worker and supporter. Mr. Guild married, November 21, 1848, Margaret Jane, 
daughter of William and Abigail (Eaton) Fox of Woburn. For the jiast nine years he re- 
sided at Newton Highlands. His death occurred November 17, iSgO. 

Guild, Chester, son of Nathaniel and Rebecca ( Hart) Guild, was born in Walpole, 
April 9, 1791. When fourteen years of age he went to Roxl)ury and entered his brother's 
leather manufactory, and in 1S12 went into business on his own account. He married Har- 
riet Fiske of Boston, June 13, 1822. In 1845 he purchased a large tannery in Charlestown, 
and shortly afterward removed to Somerville. Mr. Guild was a member of the Board of 
Selectmen of Somerville, and had represented the town in the CJeneral Court. He was a char- 
ter member of Washington Lodge, F. A. A. M., of Roxbury. and of John Abbot Lodge, of 
Somerville. He died March 7, 1869. 

Hadley, Emma Prichard. Somerville is proud of the part that woman has had in 
making history for the growing city. Much of its success, even from the setting off from 
Charlestown, when the wives and daughters and sisters urged independence, has come from 
woman's influence. Other pens have exalted her in the various avenues in which she has 
labored and won, but outside of the ordinary praise which should be accorded there is still 
another scope to l)e alluded to, and which is tinely represented by the lady whose name 
heads this sketch. 

Mrs. Hadley is the daughter of John P. and Elizabeth A. Prichard, whose ancestor 
helped make a teapot of Boston Flarbor. She was born in eharlestown, but moved to 
Somerville when a year old, and received her education in its schools, graduating at the High 
School in 1S75. Immediately thereafter she taught as a substitute here, and in 1879 was 
married to Walter M. Hadley, son of (leorge W. HaiUey, one of the original settlers of the 
town. As early as four years of age she showed marked signs of ability in elocution, and it 
can be said of her that she is the first public lady reader in Somerville. From that time 
until the present she has taken high rank among the readers of the State, and is one of the 
most versatile artists on the public platform. Thousands have heard her only to praise her, 
and she has the fullest commendation of the ablest judges and literary personages in our 
city and elsewhere. 

In 1895 she was the lady judge with four eminent gentlemen at the Goddard prize 
reading at Tufts College. In charitable and philanthropic work Mrs. Hadley has been most 
generous, as many churches, the hospital, and organizations can well attest. Her annual 
recitals are occasions looked forward to with great interest, and are signally successful. 




jhn Haigh. 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 555 

Mrs. Iladley's pen is not an idle one, and many papers on various subjects have come 
from her pen and lirain. Of this line of worlc she is also very fon<l. She finds time from that 
devoted to her many pupils to give society the benefit and pleasure of her association, and 
her name is enrolled as a member of the Somerville Shakespeare Society, the lleptorean 
and Hillside Clubs. She is a highly esteemed member of the First Universalist Church. 

Eleven years ago Mr. and Mrs. Iladley moved into their new and co/,y-like home at 
the corner of Hathon and Arlington streets, where they now reside. 

Hadley, George W., son of Benjamin and Martha (Ireland) Iladley, was born in 
Charlestown (now Somerville) in 1S26, and was engaged in the wood and coal business on 
Charlestown Neck for twenty years. He was on the Board of Selectmen of the town of 
Somerville for four years during the war, and after the town was incorporated as a city he 
was elected to the B.iard of Aldermen. Mr. Hadley served fifteen years as principal 

assessor. 

He married Elizabeth Moore, daughter of Hugh Tannant Moore, in 1852. They have 
one son, Walter M. Hadley, who succeeded his father in the coal business. 

Hadley, S. Henry, was born in Boston, November 22, 1844, the son of .Samuel I ). and 
Mary (Ohver) Hadley, of that city. His education was obtained at the Lyman and Chap- 
man Schools, Boston, and the Prescott and High Schools of Somerville, where he moved in 
1853. He graduated from the High School in 1862 with the first class that received diplo- 
mas. There were six in the class. Mr. Hadley was instructed in music by his father, who 
enjoyed an eminent reputation; and in his fifteenth year was organist at a Medford church. 
For eleven years he was organist at the Winthrop Church, Charlestown, and has served in 
the same capacity in several of the larger churches of Somerville. He has held many posi- 
tions as conductor of musical societies, — notably at the Peace Jubilee in 1870, and has 
i)therwise been connected with musical organizations. In 1868 he became teacher of mu- 
sic in the Somerville High School, and soon after in the grammar schools, which position he 
still retains. He has taught music in the public schools of Everett, Reading, Weston, for 
ei"ht years in Medford, and for eleven years in Watertown. His success as a teacher is shown 
by the remarkable progress made in singing in the Somerville schools during the last quarter 
of a century. He has a practical knowledge of all the musical instruments, having played 
more or less upon nearly all of them. He has had charge of the Memorial-day music in 
Somerville for the past twenty years, and thus in another way his success and ability as a 
teacher and conductor has been demonstrated. Mr. Hadley married, October 28, 1869, Miss 
Martha T. Conant, daughter of Ezra D. and Betsey (Skeele) Conant. of Somerville. They 
reside at 46 Pearl street, and have two sons, Henry K. Hadley and Arthur D. Hadley. Both 
of the sons are talented musicians, the former, though only twenty-one years of age, having 
the peculiar gift of his father, of composing and arranging music for the orchestra. 

Haigh, John, son of Oeorge and Hannah (Parkinson) Haigh, was born in Dukinfield, 
Cheshire, England, December 31, 1832. His education was obtained in that town, and when he 
was seventeen years of age he was apprenticed to the trade of calico printer, which trade 
was the foundation of his success. He came to America in 1855, and early in 1856 became 
engaged with the Pacific Mills at Lawrence. After eighteen years of service with that fu-m 
he severed his connection with it, and took charge of the printing department of the Mid- 
dlesex Bleachery and Dye Works, of which he subsequently became half owner. April 12, 
1859, :slr. Haigh was married in Perkins, Me., to Lucy Jane, daughter of Captain Redford D. 
and Jane Bowker Tallman. He was always associated with the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
and was ever liberal in church contributions. He was an enthusiastic member and worthy 
exemplar of the Masonic fraternity, which he joined in Lawrence in 1859. He has held 
nearly every position in the order. In the ( Irand Chapter he passed through the office of 
.listrict deputy, grand high priest, an.l deputy gran<l high priest. For several years he was 




Georgi; W. HAiJi.iiv. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESEXT. 557 

illustrious grand master of the flrand Council of Royal and Select Masters. In 1SS3 he was 
elected grand conductor nf the ( General drand Council, Royal and Select Masters of the 
L'nited States, fur three years. He was also past most puissant sovereign grand commander 
of the Ancient Accepted .Scottish Rile. He had a private library which was, perhaps, the 
richest in choice Masonic literature of any in New l-",ngland, and he acquired no small fame 
as a collector, his cabinets containing many rare coins, medals and articles of verta of all 
sorts that are characteristic of the intelligent study of the collector. He was intenselv inter- 
ested in historical research, and was a member of the Massachusetts Society, the Societv of 
< )dd \'oluincs, and other organizations devoted to such matters. Mr. Haigh was respected 
and beloved by all the residents of Somerville, and his death, which occurred .August 20. iS()6. 
was regarded as a pu])lic bereavement. 

Hall, William Franklin, though a native of Charlestown, has resided in Somerville 
for a score of years. He was chosen a member of the Mystic Water Board of Scjmerville 
for a term of three years, from January i, 1S94. His business is that of professional account- 
ant, in which he has become \\idely known. 

Hanscom, Dr. Sanford, son of James and Mary (Frost) Hanscom, w,as born in Albion, 
Me., January 2S, 1S41. He was prepared for college at the Waterville (Me.) Classical In- 
stitute, and entered Colby University in iS6j, l)ut left college in his sophomore year to enter 
the Union Army. His Alma Mater, however, in 1SS5 conferred upon him the degree of A. M. 
He was first lieutenant of the Eighth Unassigned Company of Maine \'olunteers, which, 
when ready for service, was assigned to the Eleventh Maine Infantry, then in the Twentv- 
fourth Army Corps, Army of the James. Soon after this assignment he was connnissioned 
adjutant of the regiment. It was in active service around Richmond and Petersburg in the 
spring of 1865, until the surrender of those cities. Its last engagement was at Appomatto.x 
Court-house the morning of the day of (General Lee's surrender. In 1S68 Dr. Hanscom was 
graduated from the Harvard Medical School, and in the spring of 1869 commenced practice 
in Somerville. where he hassince reside<l. He is now serving his fifteenth year on the Somer- 
ville School lioard, and has served six years as trustee of the Public Library. For a period of 
t\^•elve years he has been State Medical Examiner for the Royal Arcanum in Massachusetts, 
which position he resigned in July, 1896, to accej^t the office of Medical Examiner-in-Chief of 
the same order. He is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, and belongs to the 
(Jrand Army of the Republic and the Massachusetts Commandery of the Military Order of the 
Loyal Legion, and is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M. He was married, October 26, 
1874, to Miss Beulah A. Hill, daughter of Cyrus and Cynthia (iMoure) Hill; they have one 
daughter. Aline Louisa Hanscom. The new schoolhouse on the corner of Webster and Rush 
streets was in 1896 named the Hanscom School, in recognition of his valuable services on 
the .School Board. 

Hartshorn, Edward, M. D., son of Rev. Levi and Hannah (Elliott) Ilartsliorn, was 
born in (doucester, Mass., June 28, 1817. He "read medicine" after the custom of the 
times, with Dr. Rendall Davis of Reading and Dr. M. Spaulding of South Reading, attended 
lectures at the Dartmouth Medical Department, but graduated after a full course at the Har- 
vard Medical School in 1840, locating in practice in Berlin, Mass., the same year. In 1841, 
May 13, he married Lucy Elizabeth Howe, daughter of .Solomon and Sarah Howe of Berlin. 
Their only children have been Edward Howe and William Henry, the former dying ten 
years ago. After several years of successful practice his health demanded a change, and he 
commenced the manufacture of medicines and cooking extracts, which are now in general use, 
in about sixty different varieties. He took his sons into copartnership as they reached their 
majority. He removed his business to Boston about thirty years ago, taking up his home at 
87 Munroe street, in Somerville, where he has since resided with his surviving son and 
family. 




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Edward Hartshorn. M. D. 



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Frank S. Hartshorn. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 56 1 

In 1S7S he became interested in the United Order of the (Jolden Cross, and rehn- 
i|uished his business to his sons (now carried on l)y \V. II. Hartshorn), and devoted much 
energy and time to its interest. In this order he has been honored with the highest official 
rank, having Ijeen Grand Commander of this State, a representative to and a permanent 
member of the supreme body, and is accredited with great success. In 1880 he established 
the " Golden Cross journal," and he still edits and manages this influential paper of exten- 
sive circulation. In church matters he has been very active, having been superintendent of 
the Sabbath School in Berlin several years, and also of the Prospect Hill Sunday-school, 
in connection with the churcli of the same name, which he was largely instrumental in 
forming. He was one of the first deacons of the Day-street Congregational Church, and has 
held that office in the Prospect Hill ('hurch from its origin. His faithful wife, to whom he 
attributes largely his success in life, celebrated with liim recently the lifty-tifth anniversary of 
their marriage. 

Hartshorn, Frank S., son of Francis C. and Aroline A. (.Saunders) Hartshorn, was 
born in Charlestown, Mass., Feb. 13, 1S46. His father moving to Somerville with his family 
in 1852, Mr. Hartshorn received his education in the schools of that city, and was graduated 
from the Somerville High .School in the first class to receive diplomas in 1862. He was for 
several years in mercantile life, and later in the dramatic profession. For fifteen years he 
has Ijeen connected with prominent hotels, having been for nine years in the Old Tremont 
I louse, Boston. He was for three consecutive years \\'. M. of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., 
of .Somerville, and is a member of a council (jf the Home Circle. Mr. Hartshorn married 
Ellen L., daughter of Cyrus Y. Crosby of Somerville, and their children are Horace ('., of 
New Orleans and Florence S. Hartshorn. He has resided in Somerville for forty-four years, 
excepting a short time in Watertovvn, and in Memphis. His present residence is at 96 Glen 
street. 

Haven, Mrs. Clara P., who for three years has been president of the Daughters of 
Maine Club, was born at West Gardiner, Me., and taught for some six years in different 
sections of the State, filling with distinguished success positions in all grades in the schools. 
Her marriage with Mr. George D. Haven brought her to this city, where she has ex- 
erted a wide and powerful influence in her church and social life. .\n active member of the 
First Universalist Church, Mrs. Haven has devoted herself to the Sunday-school and to all 
matters pertaining to the parish, in all this, neglecting no portion of her home or social duty 
Under her direction the Daughters of Maine have made a splendid showing, and are gain- 
ing in influence every day. Mrs. Haven possesses unbounded faith in women to accom- 
plish grand results from earnest effort, and this faith has been justified by good works. 
Mrs. Haven has a most winning personality, is eminently practical, thoroughly in touch 
with the progressive spirit that animates this period, and is an ideal home-maker. Looking 
forward always to higher perfection in the clul) work, maintaining the highest standard 
possible, bringing enthusiasm and refined tastes into all she has undertaken, the club mem. 
bers have only been satisfied with the best results. Mrs. Haven is a member of the 
Ileptorean Club, doing her full share in the work of that notable organization, and her 
full and busy and useful life is an example of what wide influence may be felt from one 
active and refined personality. 

Hayden, Joseph Orlin, treasurer of Mfddlesex County, was born in Blandford, Mass., 
July 8, 1847, the youngest son of EHzur B. and Lucinda (Simmons) Hayden. His father 
was a well-known schoolmaster for many years, and later in life became a prosperous farmer. 
In early life Mr. Hayden attended the district school in Blandford, and from there went to 
the Granville Academy and the High School in Chicopee. At the age of seventeen he went 
West, and became a clerk in a law, real estate, and insurance estafjlishment in Minneapolis. 
.Vt the end of two years he bought an interest in a newspaper in that city, and soon after be- 



562 somi:r\/i.i.i:, r.isr .\.\n rRiisiixr. 

came the manager. Mr. Haydencame lu Somersille in 186S, and entered the estal)lishment 
■>f Hmerson Leland \ Co., of .Arcli street, as bookkeeper; after one year's service with the 
linn he resigned to become the treasurer and oftice manager of the Boston Daily and Sunday 
"Times." In 1S76 Mr. Hayden severed his connection with this paper to assume control of the 
Sumerviile " Journal. " and for the jiast twenty years it has been under his personal guidance. 
( )f late vears but little of his time has been devoted to his newspaper, for in 1S86 he was 
unanimously elected treasurer of Middlesex County, which office he has held ever since. In 
iS,S2 he was elected a meml)er of the Somerville Myslic Water Board, and served as its presi- 
dent until he resigned, in 1S90. During his term of office the much-needed high-water ser- 
vice was jiut in o])eration. Mr. Hayden is the ])resident of the Somerville National Bank, 
a trustee of the Somerville Savings Bank, and also a trustee of the Somerville Hospital Asso- 
ciation. In newspaper circles his wise judgment and conservative methods are always in 
demaiul. He is now the president of the Suburban I'ress Association, which has a memijer- 
ship of nearly two hundred publishers and editors of the leading New England papers, and 
is also treasurer of the Massachusetts RepubUcan Editorial Association. Mr. Hayden is a 
memi)er of John Abbot Lodge of Free and .\ccepted Masons, Somerville Royal Arch Chap- 
ter, and of Orient Council. .As a county treasurer he is considered one of the best in the 
State, his system of bookkeeping and sets of bonks having been copied by other county offi- 
cials and approved by experts; as a newspaper manager he has few equals, and as a conserva- 
tive, careful Ijusiness-man he stands in the front rank. In all the progressive, beneficial 
movements of the city Mr. Hayden has always taken a leading part, both personally and 
with the great power of his pajicr. 

In 1870 Mr. Hayden was married to Mary Elizabeth Pond of Sumerviile. They re- 
side at 42 Spring street. 

Hayes, John S. Mr. Hayes has been a living force in Somerville. He came to this 
city to assume the dvities uf princijial of the Eorster Ciramniar .School, and held that position 
from 1878-93, a period of fifteen years. In that half a generation of years how many chil- 
dren and youths have had the imprint of his personality! .-\s a teacher he was devoted to 
his profession, and held in honorable esteem by his associates. He has been president of 
the Middlesex County Teachers' Association ; has read two admirable papers before its con- 
ventions, and also before other teachers' conventions. He was founder of the very popular 
Hillside Club, now sixteen years old, and its second president, and has served two terms as 
l^resident since then. Nearly every year he has read a paper before the club; and furnished 
to the local press, and read before historical societies, e. g. in Dedham, Harvard, etc., essays 
and lectures of local and general value. Some of these have been : " Myths of the Revolu- 
tion"; " .\ddress on Laying the Corner-stone of the Winter Hill Congregational Church"; 
" .\d(lress at the Twentieth Anniversary of C«Lur de Lion Commandery, Knights Templar "; 
.\ History of That Commandery; "A History of the Public Library"; ".\nnual Reports 
of the Library," which have been of such merit that they have been called for in all parts of 
the country. 

.\t the time of the semi-centennial celebration he took an active part from the lirst : 
served on important committees; was chairman of the Historical Committee; and on the day 
of the parade acted as commander <,A the Sixth Division. It was fitting he should have the 
last position, since he came of military parentage. His grandfather was a soldier of the Rev- 
olution, and his father a soldier of the War of 1S12. His active interest in all public affairs 
has been noticeable. He has been president of the Somervilh; Improvement Society. He 
was a member of the committee that marked the historic spots of Somerville. He is at 
present a member of tiie City Charter Commission. It may be said, in this connection, that 
he has written and published many able articles on the ancient and contemporary history of 
ilic . itv. In attending to matters of outside interest he has never neglected those which 



SOMKRl'ILlJu FAST AXD PRESENT. 563 

seem to pertain more immediately to his own literary associations. He lias a large private 
lilirary of carefully selected books which have a marked value in wellnigh every depart- 
ment of literature. ( )ccupying as he now does, and has for three years, the responsible posi- 
tion of librarian of the Public Library, he has been able to supplement its resources quite 
frequently liy drawing upon those of his own lilirary. 

Besides the Hillside Club, he is a member of the Twentieth Century Club, the Massa- 
chusetts Liljrary Club, and of the American Library Association. His interest in Masonry 
has been prominent. He is a charter member of Soley Lodge, Past High Priest in Somer- 
ville R. A. Chapter, was active in founding, and is a charter member of Orient Council K. and 
S. Masters, and was its first Thrice Illustrious Master; is Prelate of Cieur de Lion Com- 
mandery, Knights Templar, and a member of the Massachusetts Consistory. He has also 
l)een for years afhUated with the Royal Arcanum. He has been Regent of Excelsior Coun- 
cil, has served on important committees of the Grand Council, was for seven years on its 
finance Committee, and has been six years Crand Treasurer, and holds that office to-day. 
These are skeleton facts, but a clean, vigorous, and helpful life has been built in and 
around them. Life is more than what it feeds on; more than what it does. Better than 
seeing, is vision; better than what a man accomplishes is the man himself. 

Hazeltine, Channing, was bom in Strafford, \'t., October 9, 1S44, of old New England 
pre-revolutionary stock. After acquiring such education as the schools of his native village 
afforded, he entered his father's tannery to learn the tanner's and currier's trades. At the 
age of 22 he went to Plainfield, Vt., where, having married, he embarked in the tanning 
business. At the age of 24 years he represented his adopted town in the \'ermont Legislature, 
soon after adding two more tanneries ti> his business; he also became largely engaged in 
lumbering, farming, brickmaking and building. In 1881 he came to Somerville, and soon 
after entered the real estate Itusiness on Devonshire street. He still retains his residence 
in Somerville. 

Henderson, Franklin, was born in Newbury, \t., August 27, 181 S. \\\ 1839, at 
the age «>f twenty-one, he came to Somerville — then a part of Charlestown — and engaged 
as a farmer with Mr. Samuel T. ]<"rost, who lived on Milk Row, wow Somerville avenue. In 
1844-1848, he served the town as Superintendent of Streets, after which for sixteen years he 
was in the employ of the Lowell Railroad as track-layer. During the war he returned to the 
city service on the streets, and remained twelve years in that employment, and subse([uently 
engaged in the milk business in which he still continues to be interested. In 1849 Mr. 
Henderson married Caroline E. Tufts, of Somerville. and in the same year built his present 
residence on Central street. He has one daughter, Mrs. E. 1>. \'reeland. 

Herbert, John, is the son t>f an old and prominent Xevv Hampshire lawyer. He was 
born at Wentworth, X. H., November 2, 1849, but most of his boyhood was spent at Rum- 
nev, N. II. At the early age of twelve years his parents moved to Boston. He graduated 
at the head of his class from both the Mayhew (n'ammar School and the English High 
School, and shortly afterwards entered Dartmouth College, where he graduated with honor 
in 1S71. After his graduation he was elected principal of Appleton Academy, New Ips- 
wich, N. H.. which position he held for several years. He then resigned, and studied law 
with his father in Rumney, and was admitted to the Bar in New Hampshire in 1875. In 
187S lie started upon a foreign trip, and spent a year in travel through Europe and the East. 
Soon after his return he came to Somerville, and l)egan the practice of law in Boston. Mr. 
Herbert is a member of the Boston Bar Association, and has been admitted to practice in 
the Supreme Court of the United Slates. He is President of the Appleton Academy Asso- 
ciation, — which has in its membership persons from nearly every city in the Union, including 
many of note, — President of the Somerville Congregational Union, ex-President of the Mystic 
Vallev Club, ex-l'resideiit of the Congregational Sumlay-school Union, ex-Vice-President of 







o 

CD 



> 










Solomon S. Higgins. 




Col. Herbert H. Hii. 



SOMERl'II.LK, PAST AXD PRESENT. 567 

the Appalachian Mountain Club, and a prominent member uf the Congregational Club. He 
took an active part in the organization of the Municipal League of Somerville, and was 
elected its Hrst President. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, and of De Molay 
Commandery. He was one of the original founders of the "Somerville Citizen.'' and is now 
President of the Somerville Citizen Company. He is also a mend)er of the Massachusetts 
Press Association. Mr. Herliert has a large and lucrative practice; and he gives extensively 
of his time, strength and means to many good causes. 

Higgins, Solomon S., was born June 4, 1845, the son of Solomon and Olive Sparrow 
Higgins. He went on sea-voyages early in life, and subsequently went into the provision 
business in Boston, where he has been engaged over twenty-five years. He came to Somer- 
ville, and finally purchased the George O. Brastow mansion on Spring Hill. He is one of the 
largest real estate dealers in Somerville, a great part of which property he has extensively 
developed. He was a member of the Common Council in 1889 and 1890, and is an earntst 
worker in the Republican Ward and City Committee. Mr. Higgins takes a great deal of in- 
terest in the C.. A. K., and is a member of \V. C. Kinsley Post 139, and has served on the staffs 
of Cen. Weisart and Capt. J. G. B. Adams, commanders of the National Department. He 
married, for his hrst wife, Julia L. Nickerson of Harwich, .Mass., who died in 1875, an<l by 
whom he had four children, a son surviving and being in business with his father. In 187S 
Mr. Higgins married Abbie E. Lakin. He is a member of the Red Men, Sons of the Revo- 
lution, Central and Whitney Clubs. He had a great-grandfather who had four commissions 
in the revolutionary period. At the celeiiration of the semi-centennial in 1892 Mr. Higgins 
was inspector-general on the staff of General Wentworth. His voice is often heard in 
Memorial Day orations. 

Hill, Col. Herbert E. Prominent among the veterans of the war who took a great 
deal of interest in Somerville affairs was Col. Herbert K. Hill. He was the son of 
Enos and Sarah (Randall) Hill, and was born in Boston, December 18, 1845. His father 
removed to Vermont, and the son received his education in the grammar and high schools of 
that State. Fired by patriotism inherited from his ancestry, he enlisted, at the age of 
eighteen, in the Eighth \'ermont Volunteers, serving in every battle and skirmish in which 
the regiment was engaged until and through the renowned campaign of Sheridan in the 
Shenandoah Valley. He was then assigned to duty in Washington, and had a part in the 
search for the assassin of Abraham Lincoln. 

A most honorable record for meritorious conduct caused him to be promoted, and at 
the close of the war he went to P.oston, and four years after removed to Somerville. Gov- 
ernor Rice commissioned him captain and senior aid-de-camp on the staff of Gen. Hobart 
Moore, and subsequently Gov. Talbot made him an assistant adjutant-general on his staff, 
with the rank of colonel. Col. Hill was successor to Col. King as commander of Willard 
C. Kinsley Post 139, and for four years thereafter was a department officer G. A. R., serving 
m the council of administration as vice-commander of the department, ant! subsequently 
vice-commander in chief of the National Department. Col. Hill was for many vears con- 
nected with the firm of Hill and Cutler, doing a large business in the North and South. 
One of the important traits in the character of Col. Hill was his love for historic spots, 
and through his efforts the memorial battery on (/entral Hill marks revolutionary ground. 
The marble shaft on the Winchester, Va., battlefield, and monument on the battle-ground 
of Cedar Creek stand as tributes of his generosity, devotion and good feeling. The Vermont 
Legislature, on November 2, 1866, adopted resolutions thanking him for his noble work in 
marking sacred spots. As a historian Col. Hill was also able and accurate, many articles 
being left behind him to attest to his knowledge of the scenes he so finely portrayed. 

In 1S80, in the middle of what maybe called his political career, he was chosen as 
messenger to bear the electoral vote of Massachusetts to Washington for Garfield and 



56S somi:r\/lij:, past axp presext. 

Arthur. He represented Somerville at the centennial celebration at Lexington and Concord, 
April 19, 1S75. He also held other places of prominence, and for three years was secretary 
of the famous Middlesex Club. Col. Hill served the city as a member of the Water Hoard, 
and was also one of the overseers of the [ioor, and one of the board of managers of the 
Perkins Institution for the Blind, in ISoston. He was for a long time a deacon in the Kast 
Somerville Baptist Church, in which he took great interest. He was a member of Soky 
Lodge and other I'raternal organizations. 

Col. Hill was married to Knima ( )., daughter of Richard and Sarah J. ( Wheelwright) 
Rich. One son, Herbert Tierce Hill, was born to them, and is now engaged in mercan- 
tile business in Boston. Col. Hill died at his home in Somerville, April 8, 1892, after a 
long and suffering illness. Soon after his decease his widow erected the beautiful home 
at the corner of Pearl and Mt. Vernon streets. On the 27th day of June, 1S96, she died 
very suddenly of heart failure, leaving very many dear friends to mourn her loss. The 
son continues to occupy the home, and is fast f(dlowing his parents in the esteem of the 
community. 

Hill, William Pomfrey, was born in Boston, Lebruary 5, 1S45, '^^ son of Converse 
and l)orothea Washington ((larner) Hill. He graduated from the Brimmer School, Boston, 
and at once entered into business. His first venture for himself was in December, 1877, when 
he established the firm of Hill and Langtry — saddlery and harness. The tirm dissolved in 
May, 1892, Mr. Hill continuing the business under the firm style of Hill and Hill. The 
house is now the leading one in its line in New England. He served the city as a member of 
the Council three years, and as a member of the School Board six years, — is secretary of the 
New England Saddlery Dealers' Association, a member of Somerville ( "hapter. Royal Arch 
Masons, and De Molay Commandery, Knights Templar. 

Hodgkins, Frank E., the son of William and Abigail (Cibbs) Hodgkins, was born 
in Charlestown, March 3, 1S49. He was educated in the public schools of his native city, 
and then entered upon a commercial life. In 1878 he became cashier of the Boston 
Lead Manufacturing Company, and there remains. Mr. Hodgkins came to .Somerville 
in 1864. 'ie is a member of John Abbot Lodge, I". .'\. A. M., Somerville Chapter, R. A. M.. 
Orient Council, R. and S. M., De Molay Commandery. K. T., LUity Council, R. A., of which 
he is a P. R., and is treasurer of the Somerville V. M. i . A. Mr. Hodgkins married Miss 
Eveline K. Gulliver, daughter of Lemuel and Emeline C. ( Whiting) CuUiver, of Somerville. 
They reside on Broadway. 

Hodgkins, William H., was born in Charlestown, June 9, 1S40, the son of William 
and Abigail (( ;ihl)Sj Hodgkins. His education was obtained in the Harvard Cramniar and 
the Charlestown High School. On leaving school he learned the business of a merchant, 
in the southern shipping and commission trade, on State street. In July, 1862, he enlisted 
in Company B, Thirty-si.xth Regiment, Massachussetts Volunteers, was promoted second 
lieutenant, lirst lieutenant, adjutant and captain. In 1865 he was brevetted major. After 
the war Major Hodgkins came to .Somerville, and entered the service of the city of Boston, 
in the Department of Public Institutions, where he served as clerk of the board for Iwenty- 
une years. He is now trustee of the estate of the late J. Putnam Bradlee. Major Hodgkins 
served the city in the Cimimon Council of 1873 and 1874, the last year as president. In 
December, 1891, he was elected mayor of the city, which position he occupied four years. 
Major Hodgkins is a member of W. C. Kinsley Post, C. A. R., of the Loyal Legion, 
and was five years president of the Somerville V. .M. C. \. He is the author of the 
"History of the Thirty-sixth Regiment'" and '"The Battle of Fort Stedman." Major 
Hodgkins married Miss S. Augusta Ilayward, daughter of Ebene/er and Sarah (Lane 
Hay ward, of Boston. They reside on Central street. 



( Ki- 



SOMKRVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 569 

Holland, Silas Harvey, was horn in Boston in 1814, the son of Samuel and Martha 
gers) Ilollanil. His father was an English sea captain, and was lost at sea. The 
greater part of the young man's early life was spent in the towns of Marlboro and North- 
boro, where, in the latter town, he learned the carriage-maker's trade. He went to Cam- 
bridge in 1S35, and after working at his trade few years he engaged in the railroad-car 
business, which he followed for fifteen years, until his health failed him, when he sold out 
his interest in the business. He married Miss Sarah S. Locke, daughter of Major Jonathan 
and Mary (Tufts) Locke, of Lancaster. Mr. Holland came to Somerville in 1856, and 
l>ought the farm owned by Thomas Teele, on Broadway, where he engaged in market-gar- 
dening and fruit-raising for thirty-five years. He has also been a dealer in real estate in this 
city and Cambridge. He served on the Board of Selectmen for the town of Somerville four 
years, and at the present time is one of the trustees of the Somerville Savings Bank. 

Holt, Samuel W., son of Reul^en, Jr., and Siliel (Piper) Holt, was born in Landgrove, 
\ t., ( )ctoiier 23, 1S27. His education was obtained in the district schools of that town, and 
HI 1845 h^' ^~a'»t' to Boston and obtained employment in the grocery business; in this he 
remained a few months, and then learned the trade of paper-hanging, which calling he fol- 
low ed two or three years, he then entered the teaming business, and soon purchased the in- 
terest of a retiring member of the firm of Page, Noyes & Co., now Fifield, Richardson & Co., 
continuing in the firm until he retired in September, 1895. 

Mr. Holt was a member of the Boston Volunteer Fire Department nine years, and was 
a charter member of the Boston Light Artillery, the first mounted battery M. V. M. He 
came to Somerville in i860, and served in the Common Council in 1884 and 1885, in the 
Board of Aldermen in 1886 and 1887, and on the Water Board in 1889 and 1890. He is a 
member of the John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., the Somerville Chapter, R. A. M., the Bos- 
ton Veteran Firemen's Association, the \'ermont Association and the Mystic Valley Club. 
Mr. Holt married Mary A. Richardson, daughter of Artemas and Rachel (Davis) 
Richardson, of Weston, \'t. They reside at 197 Washington street. 

Hopkins, James R., chief of the Somerville Fire Department, was born at East Cam- 
l)ridge, January 10, 1836, and was educated in the Cambridge puidic schools. After gradua- 
tion, at the age of sixteen, he was apprenticed to learn the furniture-carving trade with Doe, 
1 lunnewell & Co., furniture manufacturers. While serving his apprenticeship he also received 
a full course of instruction in drawing at the Lowell Lislitute, Boston. 

He remained with this concern until the spring of 1858. He then found employment 
at the Haley, Morse & Boyden furniture factory, at South Dedham — now Norwood, — where 
he remained one year, and then returned to his former employers, with whom he remained 
until April 19, 1861, when he responded to the first call of President Lincoln for troops, and 
with the Somerville Light Infantry, a part of the Fifth Massachusetts Regiment, went to 
Washington, D.C., via New York and Annapolis, in Gen. B. F. Butler's command. Sub- 
sequently, with his regiment he was stationed in Virginia, and participated in the first battle 
of r.ull Run. With this battle ended his three months' term of enlistment. Returning 
home, he at once found a position with his old employers at East Cambridge. 

In the fall of 1862 he again enlisted, and went with General Butler to New Orleans, 
where he remained seventeen months, and was attached to the Chief <,)uartermaster's 
Department. 

His long and successful career as a fireman commenced when he was a mere lad, and 
he has iieen an active member of several engine companies in East Cambridge, Somerville 
and Norwood. In 1859 he was placed on the rolls of the Somerville No. i Company, and 
served as an active member, and during his time of service in the war as an absent member, 
until November 7, 1865, when he was transferred to the new Hose Company No. i, with 
which he remained until it disbanded in lulv, 1866. 



5 JO soMEKiii.i.i-:. iwsT .\\n ri<i:si:.\r. 

lie hclil the ot'tice of second assistant furenian of Somerville Enj,'ine Company No. i in 
1S59, and was clerk of the company the year following. He was also clerk of Hose Com- 
pany No. I during the entire time he was a member of that company. In April, 1869, lie 
was appointed an engineer by the old IJoard of Selectmen, and January 15, 1S72, some 
two weeks after .*>omerville became a city, he was elected chief, and has held that position 
ever since. He was one of the original members that organized the National Association 
of Fire Engineers at ISaltimore, .Md., October 20, 1.S73. He has attended most of its an- 
nual conventions, has held the office of vice-president, and served upon many of its im|)or- 
tant committees, as well as contributing many valuable essays on the fire service at its 
conventions. He is also an active member of the Massachusetts State Firemen's Associa- 
tion, the Somerville \olunteer Veteran Firemen's Association, and the prime mover in the 
recently organized Massachusetts Fire Chiefs' Club. He is also a member of the J. .MibDt 
Lodge, F. .\. A. M., Oasis Lotlge, I. O. of O. F., the Royal Arcanum, Knights of Honor, 
( lOoA I'ellows and the CJ. A. K. For many years he has been a member of prominent church 
choirs in Boston, Koxbury and Somerville. He was married September 30, 1S65, to Susan 
C. Moore, d.iugliter of J. .Xbram Moore, and has two children, a son and a daughter. 

Howes, Francis M., was born at Chatham, Mass., in 1840. He was of a sea-faring 
family, and very naturally he took to the sea, shipjiing befijre the mast on tishing schooners 
when but eleven years of age, during the summer months. Throughout the winters he 
attended school. After four years of this life he shipped in one of the vessels of the Mer- 
chants and Miners Transportation Company, the Joseph Whitney, and with the exception 
of about two and a half years in the latter part of the Fifties, which he spent in cruising 
around Cape Horn, his entire nautical life has been in the employ of this line. His rise was 
steady and rapid, and when he was but twenty-six years of age he took his first per- 
manent command of the McClellan, formerly the Joseph Whitney, although he had had 
temporary command of the George Appold the year before. He was the youngest captain 
that ever had command of a steamer of this line, and to-day he is the oldest captain in point 
of service. He has held the position of senior captain of the line for ten years, a position 
that his brother, the late Solomon Howes, held before him. The late Capt. Howes, who took 
the first boat out of Boston Harbor on Christmas Eve, 1S54, was as able a sailor as ever 
commanded a ship, and it was under his training and that of Capt. Hallett, the pioneer 
commanders of the line, that Capt. Howes received his lessons in seamanshij). This training, 
together with his natural push and indomitable will, have put him in his present high jiosition 
on the line. In the twenty-seven years in which he has been a captain for this line, Capt. 
Howes has commanded the following vessels: The McClellan, Ceorge Appold, Blackslone, 
William Lawrence, William Crane, P.erkshire, Decatur H. Miller, Chatham (named in honor 
of his native town), the Dorchester, and the new boat the Gloucester, one of the finest vessels 
afloat. At the age of twenty-one, Capt. Howes married Miss Catherine R. Doane, of Chatham, 
where they had been schoolmates together. About seven years later he moved to Somer- 
ville, where he has resided for the past twenty-nine years. Their union has been blessed with 
six children, of whom one son and three daughters are still alive. They reside on Summer 
street. Capt. Howes, during his service with this line, has towed in fifteen disabled vessels* 
and rescued from a watery grave eleven crews. Oftentimes his life-saving work has been done 
at great personal risk, and his acts of heroism have been recognized in many ways. He is 
a member of John .Vbbot Lodge, F. h. .\. M.. Knights of Honor. Royal .\rcanuni, ami 
Pilgrim Fathers. 

Hubbard, Orrin C, was i)orn in Rowley, Mass.. May 13, 1S51, the son of Calvin and 
Mary E. (Chaplin; Hul)l)ar(l. of that town. He was educated in the public schools of his 
town, and the Dummer Academy. In 1870 he came to Boston, and learned the silk hatter's 
trade, remaining with the tlrm of Brown \- Wilcox fourteen years. His entering business <>n 



SOMERl'/LLE, P. 1ST .LVD PRESENT. 571 

his own account resulted in the estal)lishment of the firm of Lamson & Hubbard, where he 
still continues. Mr. Hubbar.I came to Somerville in 1881. He is a member of John Abbot 
• Lodge, F. .\. A. M., Somerville Chapter, R. A. M., of which he has been high priest; Orient 
Council, R. and S. M., De Molay Commandcry, K. T., and Boston Lodge of Perfection. 
S. R. He resides on Highland avenue. 

Hughes, Albert E., was b(Kn in Truro, Mass., in December, 1831, son of James and 
Jane (Avery) Hughes. He was educated in the schools of his native town, and came to 
Boston in 1850, \\-hen he engaged with his brother, John Avery Hughes, in the manufacture 
of show-cases, which business he still carries on, at the original location on Washington 
street, opposite the Old South Church. Mr. Hughes was married to Miss Anna ^L Magoun. 
daughter of Joshua Magoun, of Charlestown, who was the pioneer ship-builder on the 
Mystic River, and whose yard occupied the site where the Charlestown gas-works are now 
located. Mr. Hughes came to Somerville in 1S56. He resides at 59 Rearl street. 

Huntley, L. Herbert, was born in Charlestown, May i, 1858. He came to Somerville 
m 1870, and attended the Prescott Crammar and the High School; on the completion of his 
education he entered the employ of his father in the produce commission business in 
]3oston, and subsecpiently became a memljer of the firm of R. Huntley and Son. He is now- 
sole proprietor of the business, and is located on Blackstone street, and in Blackstone Mar- 
ket. Mr. Huntley is a member of the I'.oston Chamber of Commerce, Excelsior Council, 
R. A. ^L, Harmony Council, H. C, an.l the East Somerville Baptist Church. He was 
elected to the Common Council in 1894, i-e-elected in 1895, -in^l I')' a unanimous vote was 
chosen president of the Council in that year. He is now a member of the Board of Alder- 
men. His residence is at No. i Pearl street. 

Ireland, George W., son of Jonathan and Mercy ( Pollard) Ireland, was born Januarv 
13, 1S16, in Boston, on Warrenton street, at the corner of Tremunt street, in the house 
that stood (in the triangular piece recently taken for subway purposes. His ancestors were 
born in that part (if Charlestown now Somerville, at the corner of Ireland's rangeway 
(School street) and Milk Row (Somerville avenue). He received his education at Madam 
Rider's private school, the Franklin School, and the English High School of Boston. He 
was true to the friendships of his youth, and made great eff.irts in his old age to attend the 
meetings of the Boston Old Schoolboy's Association. He entered the employ of Whittemore 
(S: Chamberlin in 1833, rising to the position of chief clerk, and having charge df their busi- 
ness. In 1837 he went to Stoddard. X. IL, where, with his brother, Wm. H. Ireland, he 
engaged in a general-store business, and the manufacture of potato-starch and potash. 

The brothers bought out the soda manufacturing business of Darling & Pollard, 
l!(«ton, in 1845. ^Ir- Ireland sold dut in 1853, and moved to Somerville, building a 
residence, and engaging in the real estate business and fruit-raising. He was one of the 
founders of the First Universalist Church, and at the time of his death, its senior deacon. He 
was assessor four years, and the last collector under the town government. Mr. Ireland 
was married, November 28, 1841, to Jane Preston of Windsor, N. H., who is still living. 
He has had three children : Emma Jane, who died in infancy; George II. Ireland, assistant 
treasurer of the Milton Bradley Co., Springfield, Mass.; and Martha Jane, wife of Dr. E. P. 
Gerry, Jamaica Plain. He liecame ill while on a visit to his daughter, and died after a long 
and painful illness, July 2, 1895. 

Jones, Melville D., was hum in Boston, September 25, 1842. He received an edu- 
cation in the public schools of his native city, and when but eighteen years of age, at the 
breaking out of the Civil War, he enlisted in Captain Wm. R. Swan's Company (C),5th Regi- 
iment, Massachusetts Volunteers, and with the regiment started for the scene of war on the 
19th of April, 1861. The regiment served the State and nation creditably, and even after 
its term of service had expired, participating in the first battle of Bull Run, in which it took 



-^;2 SOMERIJLLK, PAST .LVD /'AU-SEXJ. 

a prominent part. Mr. Junes, wearied by the excitement and fatigue of the day's battle, by 
sheer exhaustion, fell out of the ranks of the rejjiment with a comrade on the retreat, and 
slept in the woods, within a few miles of Lentreville, the place for which the troops had 
started in the mornin<;, and was accounted one of the missing; hut in consequence of the 
rebels not folk)wiiig up their victory, he found his way i)ack to Alexandria on the eveninj^ 
of the 22(1. When the call for six months" troops was made in 1S62, he again offered his 
services, and enlisted in Comjiany F, Captain J. F. Sawyer, Cambridge, of the 6th Regiment, 
and served for nine months. This regiment was stationed during its term of service in Suf- 
folk, \'a., and, operating with the troops in that vicinity, was in many engagements. After his 
discharge from the service he entered the employ of the John A. Winn & Co., ornamental 
iron works, and in 1S70 he embarked in business on his own account in the same trade, 
an<l continues in it at his present location, 368 Washington street, IJoston. Mr. Jones came 
to Somerville in 186S, and has had his residence here since that time. He was married to 
Catherine F. Lovett of Boston, .\ugust 31, 1864, and they have a family of three sons and 
one (laughter, the oldest son, Melville F., being associated with his father in business, and 
the third son, Frederick G., employed in his factory. Mr. Jones joined the Willard C. Kins- 
ley Post No. 139, C A. K. in 1870, and has been a prominent member, and has taken an 
active part in the work of the post. He was chairman of its relief committee in 1884 to 
18S6, and was elected S. \'. Commander to fill a vacancy in 1885, and was unanimously 
chosen Commander for 1886. He served on tlie I )epartment Commander's staff in 1887, 
an<l was national delegate for two succeeding years. Mr. Jones is a member of .\. O. l'. W., 
.Somerville Lodge; Winter Hill Lodge, Knights of Honor; John Abbot Lodge, V. A. .\. .M.; 
Somerville Royal Arch Chapter; L)e Molay Commandery, K. T. Though evincing a great 
interest in city affairs, he took no prominent part in Somerville politics until 1894, when he 
was elected a member of the Board of Aldermen from Ward 2, to which office he was re- 
elected in 1895, and was unanimously chosen president of the board. He served on some 
of the important committees, and was chairman of the Sewer Committee in 1896. In No- 
vember last, he was elected a member of the Ceneral Court as an independent Republican. 
He resides at 53 Walnut street. 

Jones, William P., second son of William Kdward ;yid fallen ¥. (Preble) Jones, was 
born in Sdnicrvillc, .April 22, 1869, and has always lived in this city; he graduated from the 
Forster Grammar School in 1883, from the High School in 1887, and from Harvard College 
in 1891. In college he made a specialty of history and political economy and kindred sub- 
jects, with the intention of studying law, and in the fall of 1891 entered the Harvard Law 
School. After one year there he embarked in journalism, and since May, 1892, has been 
connected with the " Somerville Journal,'' of which he is one of the editors. His especial 
pride is the fact that by hard work he earned and paid for his education. He is a member 
of the Central Club, Unity Council, Royal Arcanum, and other organizations. Resides at 
50 Vernon street. 

Kaan, Frank W., was bcjrn in Mcdford, Mass., Septemljcr 11, 1861. He came to 
Somerville in 1864, and attended the public schools, being a member of the class of 1S78 in 
the High .School. After spending a year as clerk in the Boston office of the Warren .Steam- 
ship Line, he entered Harvard College, from which he graduated in 1883. He taught one 
year in the Heathcote School, Buffalo, N. '\'., and one year in the High School, \\ altham, 
Mass., he then studieil law in the Harvard Law School, receiving the degrees of A.M. 
and LL.P)., and for the last ten years has been engaged in the jiractice of law in Boston. 

He is a memljer of the Central Club and of the Boston Bar Association; secretary of 
the Home for.\ged Women, Revere street, Boston; past master of John Abbot Lodge, A. F. 
and A. M., and for three years has been one of the Masonic state lecturers. I'rom 1888 to 
1892 inclusive he was clerk of the Overseers of the Poor; a member of the Common Council 




John Kellev. 




Frederick I.. Kellogg, M.D. 



S0MER17LLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 575 

ill 1S93; its president in 1894: and representative from Ward 2 in the General Cuurt in 1895 
and 1896, serving as a member of the committee on mercantile affairs both years, also as 
house chairman of the committee on election lnv\s the second year. 

Kelley, John, was born in Portland, Me., May 6, 1845, where he passed his boyhood 
and attended the public schools. At the age approaching seventeen he enlisted in the Fifth 
Maine Infantry, and served his country for four years and four months. On his return home 
he was apprenticed as a mason, and after serving his time, which was three vears, he moved 
to Boston, and for nine years was foreman for Page Brothers, contractors. At the end of 
his term of service he went into the mason business for himself, and has since continued in 
it. He has erected many substantial an<l elegant buildings, among which are the Columbia 
Theatre of Boston, the Haymarket, Lynn, and Worcester telephone buildings, besides many 
other structures used for mercantile and public purposes. 

Mr. Kelley came to Somerville in 1869, having married Miss Sarah J. Blake of Charles- 
town, Mass. I'or nine years they have made their home on Highland avenue, near the City 
Hall. He early to.jk an interest in Willard C. Kinsley Post 139, G. A. R., and worked up 
from the subordinate positions to be commander in 188S. On his retirement from office he 
was presented with an elegant and costly gold medal. A further expression of esteem in 
which he is held by his comrades is shown by his selection as delegate to various annual 
conventions of the National Department. Mr. Kelley has always refused a municipal oftice, 
but takes a lively interest in politics. 

Kellogg, Dr. Frederick L., son of Frederick D. Kellogg and Cynthia R. (Bragg) Kel- 
logg, was born in New Salem, Mass.', May 26, 1867. He was educated in the schools of 
Orange, Mass. Received his medical diploma from Bellevue Hospital Medical College. New 
\ork, in 1S89. In 1890 he was house surgeon in the United States Marine Flospital of 
New York. 

He located in Somerville in 1891, and resides at 191^ Marshall street. He enjoys a 
large and increasing practice. 

Kennard, John F., was born in Newmarket, now Newfields, N. H., August 14, 1830, 
and was educated in the common schools of that town. After leaving school he learned the' 
machinist trade, and was in the employ of the Swampscott Machine Co., until August, 1862, 
when he enlisted in the <iuota of his native town, and on the 28th of that month was mustered 
into the United States service in Co. A, Eleventh Regiment, N. H. Volunteers. He followed 
the fortunes of the regiment, participating in its various marches, battles and skirmishes; 
he was in the battleat Fredericksburg, December 13, 1862, where a brother in the same com- 
pany was mortally wounded. He was also in the siege of Vickslmrg under Grant, and after 
the surrender of that stronghold his regiment was ordered to Jackson, Miss., in pursuit of 
(len. J. K. Johnson and his troops. After the engagement at that place the regiment came 
back to MilMale and Oak Ridge, Miss., where it remained about two weeks awaiting trans- 
portation north. When the regiment rt;ached Cairo, 111., his only remaining brother was 
carried to a hospital at Mound City, 111., where he died from disease contracted in Mississippi. 
The regiment was ordered to Cincinnati, August 14, 1863, and then went into camp at Cov- 
ington, Ky., after which it was ordered to East Tennessee; Mr. Kennard, who was sick with 
malarial fever, was left at the hospital in Covington, and was finally discharged for disability, 
April 22, 1864. He came to Boston in the autumn of 1866, and was employed as a salesman 
for the firm of Geo. K. Paul & Co., and was with them twenty-eight years, until the\ went out 
of business. He came to Somerville to reside in 1877; represented Ward 3 in the City Coun- 
cil in 1884, 1885, 1886, and was a member of the Board of Aldermen in 18S7 and 1888. 
He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. M., Paul Revere Lodge, 1. ( ). O. F., Somerville 
Encampment, 1. O. O. F., Willard C. Kinsley Post 139, G. A. R., Unity Council, R. A., 
Winter Hill Lodge, K. of H., and Harmony Council, H. C. He has been married three 
times, but has no children living; he resides on Dartmouth street. 



3/6 SOMERllI.I.i:, I'Asr axd prisiixt. 

Keyes, Amos, was born in Acwortli, N. II., July i6, 1S20, tlic eldest sou of Ualjih ainl 
Hannah 1 Wilson) Kc-ycs. He attended the district school of the tow n, ami when a young man 
served for a time as teacher. Much of his early life was spent in hard work upon his uncle's 
farm and in a country store. .\t the age of twenty he went to IJellows 1-alls, \'t., where 
he worked in a hotel four years. He then came to Huston, where he obtained employment 
at Faneuil Hall Market. In 1848 he went into business with Sartwell ^: Walker, and a year 
later started in the produce trade for himself at 24 Faneuil Hall square, where, with his 
brother Dean W. Keyes as partner, he remained eleven years, renioving thence to 26 Black- 
stone street. Here for thirty-seven years he carried on a large and successful wholesale pm 
duce business, and became widely known. In 1853 he married Miss Martha \V. (.linn, 
daughter of Daniel and Sarah (Odom) Ginn of Ik-lmont, Me., then residing in Charlestown, 
Mass. In 1S55 he removed to Somerville, purchasing a house and lot at the corner of Cen- 
tral and Medford streets. In 1872 he erectetl the substantial dwelling that now occupies 
the site of the old one, and there he resided until his death, which occurred .Vugust 17, 1896. 
He left a widow, two daughters, and two sons, who for fifteen years past have been in the 
firm, and now carry on the business. Mr. Keyes was one of the organizers of the Congre- 
gational Church at the corner of Broadway and Central street, and was for many years its 
treasurer, and always a constant attendant. He was a member of the Boston Chamber of 
Commerce and of the Boston Fruit and Produce F.xchange. Mr. Keyes lived quietly and 
unostentatiously. His business integrity and his all-round (jualities as a Christian gentleman 
were the chief traits in his character. At the time of his death the Boston Chamber of Com- 
merce paid a tribute to his memory that none too many in business life win. The following 
are part of the resolutions adopted by that body and spread upon their records : — 

" Amos Keyes was one of the best known and most highly respected men in the jiro- 
duce trade in Boston. It is over half a century since he first came to this city, and for forty 
years past he conducted the business of the firm which bears his name, and which from small 
beginnings has become one of the leading houses in its line in New England. 

"All who have known him during these years bear willing testimony to his sound judg- 
ment, his strict integrity, and to the conscientious manner in which he discharged every obli- 
gation of life. He was scrupulously honest, and had the confidence of every person with 
whom he had dealings. It had become a current expression around the market that ' Anms 
Reyes's word was as good as gold.' 

" He was not known much in public life, but in religious and charitable circles he was 
charged with several important trusts, and was a Hberal contributor to all movements for the 
honor of his country, for the alleviation of suffering and for the spiritual welfare of mankind. 
He was a Christian gentleman in the broadest sense, and his kindness and generosity were 
proverbial. Nobody ever appealed to Amos Keyes for advice or assistance in vain. 

" While we, his fellow-members, business associates and personal friends, deeply deplore 
his loss, we feel consoled by the belief that his truly Christian life has won for him an eter- 
nal reward, and that his example will be a guiding star to the younger generation of mer- 
chants, showing them that industry, truth and fair dealing are the surest paths to success." 

Kimball, Fred Mason, was born at Barton, Vt., July 7, 1861, the son of K. M. 
and L. D. Kimball. In May, 1S70, his parents removed to Somerville, and took up 
their residence at the corner of Main and Fremont streets. Winter Hill, where the family 
have ever since lived. Mr. Kimball is a graduate of the Forster Grammar School and the 
Somerville High School, .\fter graduating from the latter institution he entered Massachu- 
setts Institute of Technology, being one of the first to take a course in electrical engineering 
in that school. Upon leaving the institute he immediately became connected with one of the 
pioneer parent electric lighting companies, and rapidly advanced to the position of chief 
constructing engineer. In this capacity he designed and superintended the erection of many 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 577 

of the early electric liglit stations in New England, among them one of the largest which at 
that time had been erected in this country. When his employers, the American Electric and 
Illuminating Company, removed their principal offices to New York City, Mr. Kimball re- 
signed his position to accept an engagement as assistant general manager and director of 
laboratories with the Electrical Development and Manufacturing Co., a newly organized con- 
cern employing over one hundre.l men, and engaged in Imilding electrical apparatus and 
developing electrical inventions. 

Foreseeing the rapid growth of electrical enterprises, in 1885 Mr. Kimball formed a 
partnership with Mr. Frank E. Davis, also of Somerville, under the tirm name of Kimball & 
Davis, for the manufacture of all varieties of small electric light and power machinerv and 
supplies. Mr. Davis retired from the firm in 1887, and the business was continued under the 
style of hred. M. Kimball & Co. Especial attention was given to the export trade, in which 
a large business was secured, with South American and Mexican States principally, but which 
also extended to the Sandwich Islands, India and Europe. In September, 1891, a year 
marked by consolidations, patent litigations and general changes in the electrical field, 'Mr 
Kimball disposed of his business to enter the employ of the Edison General Electric Company 
as one of the department managers of that company in New England. With the absorption 
of the Edison Company by the General Electric Company in 1892, he became New England 
manager of one of its largest departments, which position he now holds. On August 5 1885 
Mr. Kimball was married to Miss Nellie S. Ross of Medford, and three daughters, Nellie L.,' 
Winifred K. and Irene M., have been born to them. 

Mr. Kimball is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. M.; Somerville Chapter; C.t-ur 
<le Lion Commandery of Charlestown; the Royal Arcanum; A. O. U. W • 999th Artillery 
Association; the Society of Arts; " Electric Potential," an association of pioneer electrical 
workers of New England; and is connected officially with several corporations. 

Kimball, George A., was born in Littleton, Mass., May 14, 1850, and received his edu- 
cation in the public schools of his native town and at theAppleton Academy, New Ipswich 
N. H. He came to Somerville in 1869, and entered the office of Frost Bros., civil engineers' 
as a student. In 1876 he was appointed city engineer by Mayor IJelknap, which poskion he' 
held until 1886, when he resigned. He has since been engaged as consulting engineer for 
brockton on its sewerage system, and for New Bedford, Brockton and Haverhill in re-ard t,. 
the aliohtion of grade crossings. He designed and built the Arlington sewerage svstem • de- 
signed sewerage works at Montpelier, Vt., Milton, Salem and I'eabody ; built the Millis water- 
works; and was a member of the original grade-crossing commission appointed by Gov. 
Ames in 1888. He was for seven years a meml)er of the Somerville Board of Health and 
an alderman from Ward 2 in 1889 and 1890, and is at present a member of the Some'rvilk- 
Mystic Water Board. He was appointed consulting engineer for the city of Somerville in 
Januar)-. 1S96, by Mayor Berry, and in November, 1S96, was appointed by the governor and 
council a member of the Metropolitan Sewerage Commission. 

Mr. Kimball is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Boston Societv 
of Civil Engineers, and the New England Water Works' Association. He is a meml^er of 
the Prospect Hill Church, John Abi,ot Lodge, F. A. A. M., and other societies in Somerville 
He resides at y^ Warren avenue. 

Knapp, Oren S., was born in Boston, July 16, 1829. At the age of six he removed to 
Maiden, and was educated in its schools, beginning to teach at the age of seventeen He 
entered Amherst College, but at the end of two years was obliged to relinquish his course, on 
account of a trouble with his eyes. He taught two years in Medford, and was elected prin- 
cipal of the Prospect Hill School in Somerville, then the most important school in this vicin- 
ity, in 1853. He was a faithful and efficient teacher for eleven vears, relinquishing his posi- 
tion for the practice of law in 1865. He was chosen a member of the School Board in the 



378 soMKRin.i-i:. r.isr .i\n rNj:s/:x/\ 

same year, aiul served at intervals for lifteeii years, one year of the tiniv as superintendent of 
sehools. He died suddenly, November 4, 1S90.. 

Mr. Knapp was one of SomerviUe's foremost citizens, always interested and prominent 
in every movement to advance its interests, fearless and independent in the expression of 
opinion and in action, wise in counsel, kind and sympathetic and helpful as a friend, loyal 
and devoted as a citi/en, resjiected and loved i)y all who knew him. The ( ). S. Knapp School, 
on Concord avenue, was opened in 1S90. and named in his honor. 

Lacount, Eugene D., was horn in Spencer, Mass., Xovemher 1. 1S44. His early years 
were passed among the vicissitudes incident toa Methodist ministers family of that period. .\t 
the age of seventeen he enlisted in the 25th Massachusetts Volunteers, and was in the service 
over three years, four months of which were passed in a Southern prison, he havinj; been 
woundeil and taken prisoner at Drury's Bluff, Va., May 16, 1864. Soon after coming to 
Somerville he. with his father, identified himself in the formation of a Methodist society in 
West Somerville, from which resulted the present Park-avenue .M. K. ( hurch. in which he has 
alwavs taken an active part, lie is also a director of the Somerville V. M. ( '. .\. Mr. La- 
count is the senior member of the firm of John Ilolman c^c Co., Boston, one of the oldest and 
most prominent manufacturing firms of bedding in New i:ngland,and has, on many occasions, 
been called upon to represent his associates of the wholesale furniture and kindred trades. 
Ills residence since 1870, the year of his removal to this city, has been on Day street. 

Lament, Andrew A., was born at Douglastown, N. B., March 16, 1849. ^'^ was 
educated in the schools of that town. Speaking of himself, Mr. Lamont said: "Thus far 
mv life has been one of hard work and activity along several lines.'' Between the ages of 
twelve and seventeen years he became a competent ship-carpenter. This business being at 
a low ebb on the Miramichi, he learned carriage-making at New Castle, N. B., and Salem, 
Mass., landing at the latter place January i, 1868. He carried on business successfully in 
Chicago for a time, and in the fall of 1875 made a tour of Southern cities, visiting New 
( )rleans, Galveston, .\ustin and other places. 

Returning North, he entered the service of his former employer at Salem. In Septem- 
ber, 1874, he married Henrietta H. Powell. Two of his children, Mary A. and Sarah J., 
were born in Salem; two others, Charles .\. and Harold B., were born in .Somerville, where 
he has resided since the fall of 1878. In the winter of 188 1 he started in business at the 
corner of Lancaster and Merrimack streets, Boston, where he has now a successful estab- 
lishment. The sudden death of his wife, in 1887, was a severe allliction. March 16, 1891. 
he married Mary Z. Russell, a resident of his native town. Mr. Lamont has for the past four 
years given much attention to real estate, and is a trustee of three prosperous land com- 
panies. He was elected to the Council in 1894 and 1895, to the I'.oard of .Mdermen in 1896, 
is a member of Broadway Congregational Church and a teacher in the .Sabbath-school, a Past 
Noble (;rand of Paul Revere Lodge, L O. O. I'., High Priest of the Winter Hill Encamp- 
ment, L O. O. F., member of the Knights of Honor, of the Royal Arcanum, and a trustee of 
the Somerville 1-inance Club. Mr. Lamont resides at 43 Heath street. 

Lapham, F. De Witt, was bom in Littleton, Mass., July 6, 1845, and is a son of 
l.utiier and I )esiah (Nee-lham) Lapham. When eighteen he went to Eastman's Commer- 
cial College at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and after finishing his ct)urse he went to Boston, en- 
gaging with the tobacco houses of Brown & Co. and Susmann cS; Co., passing twenty-one 
years with these concerns. In 1886 he started in the real estate and insurance business in 
Somerville, and he is now one of the most active and prosperous men in those lines. 

He married Jennie H. Dickson, daughter of Thomas Dickson, of Salem, in 1869, 
coming to this city at the time. They had two daughters: Mrs. Jennie 1. Knowles, lately 
deceased; and Carolyn 1"., now twenty-one years of age. 

Mr. Lapham is fjuite an association member, being a member of Soley Lodge, Somer- 




F. De Witt Lapham. 




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HoidciKc ol cjiAKLi-.s H. IjtCKiiAkT. \'-^2 Hliii Street. 



SOMERMLLE, PAST AIVD PRESENT. 58 1 

ville Royal Arch Chapter, Excelsior (Jouncil, Royal Arcanum (in which for eighteen years 
he has been secretary), Somerville Home Circle, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, 
()rder of the Eastern Star, Howard Lodge and Somerville Encampment of Odd Fellows, in 
both of which liodies he has been at the head, and is Lieutenant-Colonel, Second Regiment, 
I'atriarchs Militant. 

In 1S95 and 1806 he was elected a Common Councilman, and the last year has seen 
him a most valuable member, having served on the committees on highways, public grounds, 
and claims. The indefatigability with which Mr. Lapham supported his order for the ex- 
tension of the City Hall, and the new boulevard in the eastern section of the city, show the 
oflficial's interest in the city's welfare. Whatever he enters upon, he pursues to the success- 
ful close. Mr. Lapham is a member of the t'irst Universalist Parish, and resides on Hathon 
street. 

Lawrence, Bernard W., was bom in East Lexington, Mass., June 15, 1846. His 
education was obtained in the grammar and high schools of that town. He came to Boston 
in 1863, ^n""' ^^'"^s engaged in the fruit and produce business in Faneuil Hall Market until 
1890. He then removed to 103 and 105 Commercial street, and emliarked in the foreign and 
domestic fruit trade and in the sale of cigars. He resiiled in Boston from August, 1S63, 
until April, 1872, when he moved to Somerville, where he still lives. Mr. Lawrence joined 
the Fire Department in 1873, and was elected foreman in 1874, which position he held for 
eleven years. He was a member of the Common Council in 1885, served for two years, and 
was then elected as a member of the Board of Aldermen, and held that office in 1887 and 
1888, lieing chosen as president of the board in the last year of his term of office. He re- 
sides at 289 Highland avenue. 

Lincoln, Charles Sprague, was bom in Walpole. N. H., X\>x\\ 20, 1S26. He was 
graduated from Harvard University in 1850. He taught school for a while after gradua- 
tion, coming to Somerville for the purpose in 1S52. He was admitted to the bar in i860. 
He was Selectman and .Solicitor for the town for many years. He served on the School 
Committee of Somerville from 1858 to 1867, and again from 1877 to 1883. He has twice 
represented the city in the Legislature, and rendered valuable service on the Boards of 
Health and of Overseers of the Poor. The Public Library owes much of its success and 
development to his efforts as trustee, which office he has held since 1879. 

In his long career as a public official, during a residence of forty years, he has con- 
tributed greatly to the prosperity of the city, and has won the respect and gratitude of his 
fellow-citizens by the honesty, the ability, and the fidelity displayed in the management of 
the trusts committed to his care. In 1866 the Lincoln School, then located on Elm street, 
and now on Clarendon Hill, was named in his honor. 

Locke, Marshall Hammon, was born at Lexington, Mass., .Vpril 12, 1822, the son of 
Hammon and Rebekah (Nevers) Locke. His early life was passed on the paternal farm, 
and his education was obtained in the schools of his native town. His employment in after- 
life has been varied, he having been a farmer, milk-dealer, miner, house-carpenter, ship- 
carpenter, storekeeper and painter. December 26, 1848, he married Lucy A. Wyman of 
Lexington, daughter of James and Betsey (Locke) Wyman, and resided in that town until 
()ctober3i, 1849, when he went to California, w'here he remained about eighteen months, 
and then returned to Lexington. He came to Somerville, January i, 1865, and has been, a 
resident of this city since that time. Mr. Locke is not a clui> man, and belongs to none of 
the so-called secret societies, being quiet and domestic in his tastes, and happiest at his own 
fireside. He has been a director of the Somerville Co-operative Bank, and a trustee for the 
Somerville Savings Bank since they were established. He resides on Summer street. 

Lombard, Frank G., was born in Charlestown, Mass., .\pril4, 1855. ^^ attended the 
public schools of his native city, and graduated from the Bunker Hill School in the summer 



-Sj SOMIlRllLLi:, r.\ST AXn PRKSF.XT. 

c,f 1S71. In the autumn of that year he entered the Bryant aiul Stralton Commercial 
College of buston, leaving that institution in the autumn of 1872, to take a position with tiie 
well-known crockery-house of Abram French & Co., Hoston, the largest estahlishmenl of its 
kind in the country. In the spring of 1879 he moved to Mt. \ernon street, Kast Somer- 
viUe, where he now resi<les. He has served the city as a member of the Council and of the 
Water Board, and has been identified with many things pertaining to the welfare of Somer- 
ville. He is A member of various organizations, among which maybe named the Soley 
Lodge, F. A. A. M.; the Somerville Royal Arch Chapter; the Cdur de Lion Commandery 
of Charlestown; the Fxcelsior Council, Royal Arcanum; and the Webcowit Club. He is a 
.lirector and clerk of the board of directors of the Aiiram French Company, with whom for 
twenty-four years he has had a business connection, and is highly esteemed i)oth in social 
and mercantile circles. 

Lombard, Henry F., was bom in Truro, Mass., July 20, 1S53, son of Henry .S. and 
Betsey M. Loml)ar.l. He came to Somerville when (|uite young, and was educated in our 
public schools. After his education was completed, he entered business, and was for many 
years cimnected with his father in the clothing trade on Clinton street, Boston. On the 
death of his father, which occurred about 1893, he formed a partnership with his brother, 
and they succeeded to the business, which is still carried on under the old lirm name at 
22 to 26 Merchants' Row, Boston. Mr. Lombard is a member of Joseph Warren Lodge 
1'. A. A. M. He resides with his mother on Bearl street. 

Loring, George FuUington, son of Captain George and Harriet A. (Stoodley) Loring, 
was born in Boston, March 26, 185 1. His father was of Barnstable, Mass., and was the son 
of David Loring, and his mother was a daughter of James Stoodley of Berwick, Me. Mr. 
Loring was educated in the public schools of Boston. In 1868 he entered the office of the 
City F:ngineer at the City Hall, Boston, and was the principal draughtsman of the surveying 
department for many years. He began the study of architecture early in life, and in 1882 
left the employ of the city of Boston, and entered an architect's office; a few years later he 
opened an office on his own account, and in 1S89 formed a partnership with Sanford Phii)ps 
of Watertown, Mass., under the firm name of Loring and I'hipps, which association has 
since continued. Among the more important buddings which this firm has erected are the 
school buildings at Greenwich, Conn., the gift of H. O. Havemeyer of New York City; 
the High School of Montclair, N. J.; the High Schools at Everett, Athol, Ware, Winsted. 
Conn., and many other high and graded schools, churches, etc. Many of the eleg.int 
residences in Brookline, West Newton and Wellesley are from i^laiis by this lirm, who were 
also architects of George H. Derby's residence on Highland avenue, Mr. Haighs residence 
on Summer street, and many other of the better class of dwellings in Somerville. The 
Public Library, Odd Fellows" Building, Masonic Building, Divinity (Miner) Hall, iufis 
College, the Glines and Lope Schools were also from plans by these architects. 

Mr. Loring is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., and De Molay Comman- 
dery of Knights Templar; he is also an Odd Fellow, a member of American Order Inited 
Workmen, a member of the L. A. W.. and belongs to the Central Cluix He was married 
to Sarah Frances Johnson, daughter of the late John B. Johnson, a descendant of Captain 
Kdward Johnson, Kent, England, who died at Woburn. 1699; her grandfather, Jotham 
Johnson, was chairman of the Board of .Selectmen of Charlestown at the time of the 
Nunnery Riot; her gran<lmother was Susannah Tufts of Charlestown, daughter of Samuel 
Tufts; and her mother Sarah Ann (I'oor), daughter of Samuel Poor of Woburn. anil Lydia 
Sprague of Maiden. They have four children : Krnest Johnson, architect, who is in business 
with his father, and is a graduate of class '95, M. I. T.; Ralph Stoodley, Gladys and Marjorie 
Loring; and they reside at the corner of lligland avenue and Putnam street. It is worth 
mentioning that this family are living on land that is a portion of the farm of their earliest 
ancestors. Mr. Loring has been closely identifie.l wiih the interests of our city since 1868. 



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;S4 SOMI'.Rill.I.i:. I'.IST AXP I'RESI-.XT. 

Lovejoy, Benjamin P., the sun of Jeremiah and Betsy l.uvejoy, was born in Gloucester. 
Mass.. Mav 2<), iSjj, tlic residence of the family l>eing then on the present site of the new 
post-oftice and government buildings. ^Yhen he was live years of age his family moved to 
Lynn, where they remained six months, and thence removed to Reading, where his father 
purchased a farm. Here Mr. l.ovejoy remained for fifteen years, assisting in tne farm work, 
and obtaining such education as he could at the common school, which he was able to 
attend a few months only in each year. In 1S53 he left the farm, and came to lioston. 
where he found employment with A. .\ldrich iV Co., bulter merchants in the (^)uincy Market, 
with whom he remained six or eight months. He then entered the employ of N. I). V. 
Taylor t\: Co., who were engaged in the foreign fruit trade in Merchants' Row, and at the 
expiration of twenty months left them, to take a position with the firm of Cyrus Carjienler 
tV Co., dealers in furnaces, etc. In 1867 he was admitted a partner in the house, and in 
1S93, after the death of Mr. Carpenter, his interest was purchased by Mr. Lovejoy, and he 
is now the sole owner of the business. He married Miss Kmma S. Carpenter, February 27, 
1S56, and has two children, a son and daughter, both of whom are married. 

In September, 1861, they removed from Boston to Somerville, and in July, 1883, took 
up their residence in the handsome house that Mr. Lovejoy erected at No. 141 Highland 
avenue. Mr. Lovejoy was a member of the Common Council in 1874 and 1875, serving on 
the committees on public property, and fuel and street lights. He was one of the foremost 
promoters of the park, and has been very earnest in forwarding its interests. He is a 
member of the Royal Arcanum and Home Circle, but is not a club man in the usual 
accej^tance of the term, his tastes being quiet and domestic. 

Lowe, Rev. Charles. Charles Lowe was born in Portsmouth, N. H., November 19, 
1S28. His iiarcnls removed to Exeter, N. H., while he was very young. He graduated at 
Lxeter Academy, and entered Harvard University in 1844, as sophomore, and, on his gradua- 
tion, entered the Cambridge Divinity School, having decided to become a minister. When 
his course was finished he received a call to the Unitarian parish of New Bedford, as colleague 
with Rev. John Weiss. After a year or more of good work there, his health failed, and he 
went to Europe, and traveled in England and on the Continent, and also went to Egypt and 
the I loly Land. He then attended lectures in the theological schools of Germany, becoming a 
proficient in the ( ierinan language. On his return home he accepted a call to the North Church 
of Salem. He remained there two years, when, his health giving way, he resigned his position. 
He married, in 1857, Miss Martha Perry of Keene, N. H., and rented an old-fashioned 
homestead in the vicinity of Salem, where he could work out of doors and restore his 
health. At the end of two years he received a call to Spring Hill, Somerville, as minister of 
the First Congregational L iiitarian Church. He accepted it, and removed here with his 
wife, and built a house on Summer street, in 1859, and devoted himself earnestly to the 
religious and practical interests of his parish. He worked vigorously for the cause of tem- 
perance in the community, and, at one time, with the help of one or two gentlemen, succeeded 
in persuading all the liquor dealers in the town to give up selling intoxicating drinks, in 
case the rest would keep the contract. During the War of the Rebellion he addresseil our 
soldiers in his church, and also at Union square. He went down to the South twice to 
preach and distribute tracts and other literature, and afterwards on a mission to the freedmen. 
He stimulated his people by his letters home, and obtained from them liberal help for our 
soldiers, and also induced them to pay the salary of a lady teacher for the freedmen. 

Mr. Lowe had made himself, in the meantime, so efTicient in the Army Committee of 
the American Unitarian Association, and elsewhere, that they wished to secure his permanent 
services, and invited him to be their secretary in 1865. His voice had become weakeneil, 
and it was doubtful how long he would be able to preach, and so he resigned his pastorate 
with many regrets, and accepted the new position for which he was so admii.ibly fitted. He 




Benjamin P. Lovejoy, 



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Howard Lowell. 



SOMEN 17LLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 5 '"^9 

kept this situation until 1871, managing the affairs of the association with such tact, earnest- 
ness, and rehgious catholicity of spirit, that he won friends in all denominations, and when 
he gave up the office, not only his co-religionists, but prominent men in otlier walks of life, 
expressed their profound regret. 

He had now two daughters, and a very attractive rural home in Somerville, and he 
decided to remain here ; but his friends were anxious that he should go abroad for a time 
and he embarked in a French steamer for Havre, with his family, and remained nearly two 
years abroad, visiting England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, where his l)rother-in-law, 
\\x. Perry, resided at Madrid. On his return, with somewhat improved health, his active mind 
led him,' by the advice of friends, to start a religious magazine and review in the interests 
of his denomination. He worked on it with great eagerness until the spring of 1874, and 
with encouraging prospects, when he was prostrated with a hemorrhage of the lungs, in the 
month of May, from which he coul.l not rally. After an illness of about three weeks, he 
passed away June 20, 1874, in the forty-fifth year of his age, leaving a place vacant in his 
home, his church, and the community, which could not be soon tilled. 

Lowell, Howard, was born in Kennebunk, Me., August 4, 1852, the son of Marshall 
and Celestine M. Lowell. He passed his boyhood there, and, at sixteen, came to Somerville, 
and worked for A. M. Angier, a well-known expressman. He returned to Maine, and at 
twenty-one years of age came back to Somerville and drove a team for B. F. Chase, a baker 
in East Somerville. In 1S71; he was appointed a patrolman, and remained on the police 
force seven years, when he started the Standard Cab Company in Boston, and was very 
successful. He built a stable on Gilman street, and, in June, 1896, built another in front of 
the older one, and has now the finest constructed stable in the city. In January, 1896, he sold 
out the cab business, and commenced paying his sole attention to his business in Somerville. 
The hay and grain and storage warehouse dejiartments were added, and now the firm ijf 
Howard Lowell & Son has one of the best equipped buildings to be found anywhere. In 
1874 he married Laura E. Moulton of Cambridgeport. They have a daughter, who is a 
general favorite among the young people, and a son, George E., who became a partner with 
his father in June, 1895, and is a very ambitious and upright young man. Mr. Lowell resides 
at 46 (iilman street in a cozy house, which he bought some time ago. Mr. Lowell was 
elected a Common Councilman from Ward 3 for 1896 and 1897, and has done good service 
for the city. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., Odd Fellows, Somerville 
Council Royal Arcanum, and the Sons of Maine. 

Lowell, Joseph Q., son of John and Mehitable (Bailey) Lowell, was born at Methuen, 
Mass., April 8, 1S42. He received his education in the schools of Haverhill, Mass., and 
was brought up as a farmer's boy, assisting in the home farm-work until he reached the age 
of twenty-three; he then came to Boston, and entered the fruit and produce business in 
which he has been engaged on his own account for upwards of thirty years, his firm, Lowell 
Bros. & Bailey, being known as one of the largest and most prosperous in the trade. Mr. 
Lowell was married in 1S67 to Mertilla J. Dutton of Stanstead, P. Q., by whom he has had 
two daughters and a son. They removed to Somerville from Charlestown in 1888. Mr. 
Lowell is a meml)er of the P.oston Chamber of Commerce, and the Boston Fruit and Produce 
Exchange; he also belongs to a number of fraternal associations, such as the I. O. O. F., 
Royal Arcanum, etc. He resides at 371 Broadway. 

Luce, Robert, was born in Auburn, Me., in 1862, son of Enos T. and Phiebe L. Luce; 
he attended the public schools of Auburn and Lewiston, Me., and the High School of Somer- 
ville, graduating from the latter in 1877. He subsequently entered Harvard College, gradu- 
ating in 1S82, and taking the degree of A.M. in 1883. He then became connected with the 
"Boston Globe," filling an editorial position on that paper until 1888, since which period he 
has been a partner with his brother, Linn Luce, in conducting the Press Clipping Bureau in 




JosLTH Q. Lowell. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST .LVD J'KES/iXT. 59 1 

Jloston and New Voi'k, an institution that employs forty people and reads alxiut two thou- 
sand papers daily. Mr. Luce has done a large amount of literary work in addition to the 
above: he was one of the founders of "The Writer," the author of " Electric Railways," 
and " Writing for the Press," and has issued various essays. His avocation outside the 
liureau work is that (if lecturing, and he is well and favorai)ly known in this department of 
his work. Mr. Luce is a member of John Abbot Lodge, V. A. A. M., and the Central Club, 
and is an ex-president of the Somerville Democratic Club. He married Miss Mabelle C. 
Karnham, daughter of Hiram L. and Elizabeth (Davis) Earnham nf tins city. They reside 
at 44 Highland avenue. 

Macomber, George H., son of William and Mary S. T. (Leeds) Macomber, was born 
in Boston, April 16, 1S57. He was educated in the public schools of that city, attending 
the Dwight and English High .Schools. He started in the clothing business in 1874 with 
Chamljerlin and Currier, and is now one of the officers of the welbknown .Standard Clothing 
Company. He married Miss Hattie Osgood, of Charlestown, January 23, 1883. Their children 
are Lawrence and Robert Leeds Macomber. He moved to his present residence, 102 
Thurstim street, in 1S90. 

MacQueen, Rev. Peter, was liorn at Inchbreed, Wigtonshire, Scotland, January 11, 
1S63. He is a descendant, on one side of his family, of the MacGregor clan, and on the 
other side, of the stern followers of Knox and Cameron. He has been in America since his 
boyhood, having come here alone, and pushed his way by dint of energy, industry and per- 
severance to his present position. He was an honor man in the class of 1887 of Princeton 
University, a graduate of Union Theological Seminary, New York City, and was for two 
years pastor of the Reformed Church, in Bronxville, N. V. His work in that parish 
was very successful, and his popularity there was universal. 

In 1893, \\lien the Day-street Church in this city was without a pastor, Mr. MacQueen 
preached there as supply, and shortly afterwards received a unanimous call to that church, 
which he accepted. He has done good, conscientious work in it; the membership and at- 
tendance have rapidly increased, and in 1896 the church was able to expend $8,000 upon 
the repairing and beautifying of the edifice and upon an elegant new organ. The ".Somer- 
ville Journal," in commenting on the church, says: " In the remodeled edifice of the Day- 
street Congregational Church, Sumerville will have one of its most attractive church build- 
ings." Mr. Mac(^)ueen is a frequent contributor to the " Cosmojiolitan " and " Munsey's," and 
is well known in newspaper circles, both in New York and Boston. He is a Inilliant, suggestive 
l^reacher, a genial, social man, and has friends in every corner of West Somerville. He is 
an enthusiastic traveler, and has visited every country in Europe, except Russia and Scan- 
dinavia. His most noted pAiropean trip was that made in the summer of 1896, when he 
conveyed to King tieorge of Greece a poem, " Our Laureled Sons," written by Henry 
O'Meara, in commemoration of the Olympic games, and dedicated to the King. The mis- 
sion was a splendid success, Mr. Mac("^ueen bringing back from the King and the city of 
Athens presents and compliments to the mayor of the city of Boston. 

Since his return Mr. MacQueen has been more successful than ever in his stereopticon 
lectures, which he had already made one of the features of the Day-street Church. He is 
interested in all that concerns Somerville, and always endeavors to promote its welfare. He 
is unmarried. 

Magoun, John C, was born in New Hampton, N. H., Decemljer 11, 1797, son of a 
soldier in the Revolutionary War. He was educated in the schools of his native town and 
in Atkinson Academy, and came to Charlestown at the age of twenty, where he engaged in 
farming and in the milk business. He was captain of a militia company, and was present 
with his command at the reception to Lafayette on Boston Common, and also at the laying 
of the corner-stone of Bunker Hill Monument. Mr. Magoun held nffice as an assessor thirty- 




'S) 



O 



SOMER\-ILLK. PAST AND J'RESENT. 593 

four years, and also served on the School Committee and as a member of the IJoard of Over- 
seers of the Poor. He was one of the founders of the First Unitarian Society. He died 
lanuary S, 1SS2. 

Mann, Alfred E., was born at Merrimack, Mass., November 17, i85i,l)ut has lived in 
Somerville since 1852. After obtaining his education he embarked in business, and in 1S87 
opened his undertaking establishment at No. 4 Warren avenue, where he has been success- 
ful in building up a large and lucrative business. He stands high in his profession as a 
funeral director and embalmer, having received instructions from the leading professors in 
the art of embalming. He is now connected with various trade associations, and is a member 
(jf Oasis Lodge, I.O. O. F., Somerville Encampment. Ivaloo Lodge, D. of R., Arcadia Lodge, 
K. of P., Wonohaquaham Tribe, R. M., Delft Haven Colony Pilgrim Fathers, Putnam ( 'oni- 
mandery, U. O. G. C, Central Club, Mystic Valley Club, Somerville Veteran Firemen's Asso- 
ciation, National Lancers, Signet Commandery Knights of Malta, and King Solomon Priory. 
Mr. Mann was married, in 1S73, to Miss Eniilie A. Calletly of this city. They reside at 75 
Washington street. 

Mann, Jairus, was born in Charlestown, ( )ct()ber 29, 1825, the son of Joseph and 
Eunice (Jacobs) Mann. His father died when he was nine years old, and after attending 
a private school for a year he entered the law office of William Sawyer, of (,'harlestown, at 
that time the leading lawyer and the only trial justice in the town. In 1853 he was ap- 
pointed a police officer in Somerville, and was afterward an assistant engineer and secretary 
of the Fire Department. He was made lieutenant of the pohce in 1865, and held the posi- 
tion until he was appointed city messenger in 1872; since then he has held this office con- 
tinuously, every mayor having made him his first appointee. He is now the longest in the 
service of the city of any of its officers. He has been a meml)er of John Abbot Lodge, 
F. A. A. M., since 1S59. He is a member of Somerville R. A. Chapter, Excelsior Council, 
K. A., Washington Council, Home Circle, and Iron Hall. He is a meml)er of the National 
Lancers, where he has held the positions of corporal and sergeant, and was the originator of 
the Massachusetts City Messengers' Club, of which he is now secretary. Mr. Mann has been 
twice married: his first wife was Miss Emeline, daughter of John Runey, of Somerville; 
his second wife was Miss Martha A., daughter of Josiah and Nancy (Smith) Spofford, uf 
IJuxton, Me. He resides on Richdale avenue. 

Meleney, Clarence E., was born in Salem December 8, 1853, the son of Henry E. and 
Kli/.a A. (Innis) Meleney, of that city. His early education was obtained at the Hacker 
Grammar School of .Salem. He was fitted fur college at the Classical Institute, Waterville, 
Me., and was graduated at Colby University with the class of 1876. After graduation he was 
principal of academies at Warren and Prescjue Isle, Me.; the Methuen High; the Washing- 
ton Grammar at Marlboro, the Adams Grammar at Quincy; Grammar Nt). 2 at Vonkers, N. 
v., and the Newton-street Grammar at Newark, X.J. For \\v<i years he was superinten- 
dent of schools at Paterson, N. J. 

Mr. Meleney came to Somerville in 18S8, having been elected superintendent of schools 
in this city, and he remained in that position five years. He married Miss Carrie E., daugh- 
ter of Rev. J. C. and Ellen Coit, of Newark, N. J. 

Mentzer, Walter C, was bom at Brady's Bend, .Vrmstrong Co., Pa., son of Charles L. 
and Lucy J. (Brewer) Mentzer, October 26, 1852. His early !)oyhood was spent in Boston, 
he first attending school at Old Fort Hill, and later at the Havves and Bigelow Grammar 
Schools, South Boston. He graduated from the Xorthboro High School in 1869, and com- 
pleted his education at Warren Academy, Woburn, Mass. He came to Somerville in 1872. 
Served in the Somerville Fire Department as call-man attached to Steamer No. i, was 
present at the great fires in Boston, November 9, 1872, and May 30, 1873. Fie began busi- 
ness with his lirother, Albert F. Mentzer, in iS72,and has continued in the wholesale provi- 



f 



'^ 



i^ 



Vp:^ 




Alfred E. Mann. 



PD 






CO 
•-I 
o 




SOMER\-ILLE, PAST A.YD PRESENT. S97 

sion trade, under the firm name of W. ( '. & A. V. Mentzer, for twenty-four years, doing busi- 
nass at 25 '4 and 27 North Market street, lioston, and Plymouth, Mass., as commission dealers 
for Armour & Co. of Chicago, 111. 

In Somerville, December 31, 1S76, Mr. Mentzx-r was married to Clara 11., daughter of 
Almon R. and Diana W. (Jackson) Thurston, of Barre, \'t. They have one son, Charles A. 
Ment/er, born November 5, 1877. Mr. Mentzer is identified with the Knights of Honor, 
Royal Arcanum, I. O. O. F., Charity Lodge, V. &: A. Masons, Somerville R. A. Chapter, De 
Molay Commandery of Boston, and Aleppo Temple Mystic Shrine. 

He served the city in the Common Council in 1885 and 1886, — was president of the 
Council the latter year, — was elected Alderman in 1887, elected on the Mystic Water Board 
1889 and 1890; served as president of the Republican City Committee in 1893, 1894, 1895, 
1896. He is vice-president of the West Somerville Co-operative liank, and director of the 
Somerville National Bank. He resides at 36 Cherry street. 

Mercer, William L., was born in Cecil ( ounty, near Baltimore, Md. He fust engaged 
in business about 1S64, in Columbus, O., where he had a boot and shoe store. At the time of 
the great fu-e in Chicago he was located there, and his store shared the fate of many others. 
He is a member of Magnolia Lodge, A. F. and A. M., (Jhio Chapter, the Columbus Coun- 
cil, R. and S. M., and Mt. Vernon Commandery, K. T., all of Columbus, O. Mr. Mercer is 
engaged in the real estate business at No. 50 School street, Boston, and resides at 342 
Broadway, in one of the most attractive houses in Somerville. 

Merrill, Dr. Arthur Ellsworth, son of Robert and P'lizabeth Allen Merrill, was born in 
I'arsonstield, York County, Me., November 30, 1861. His boyhood was passed on the home 
farm, where he imbibed good principles with the pure air of his native hills. His preparatory 
education was obtained at Parsonsfield Seminary and at New Hampton, N. H. After pursu- 
ing the stuily of medicine for a time with Moses E. Sweat, M. D. (Parsonsfield), a noted 
physician of the old school, he attended two courses of lectures at Brunswick, Me., then 
entered Long Island College Hospital, Brooklyn, N. Y., taking two courses, the preliminary 
and regular, also a special course in surgery, — receiving diplomas for each. Immediately 
after graduation he married Ella Frances Guptill of Cornish, Me., and came to Somerville, 
opening an office at 367 Med ford street, where he still resides. 

Dr. Merrill is very fond of hunting, and has brought from the Maine woods some rare 
trophies of his prowess. He is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, Soley Lodge 
F. A. A. M., Sons of Maine, and Highland Chapter No. 35, Order of the Eastern Star. He 
has a growing practice, and has an honored name in the medical profession. 

Merrill, Frank E., was born in Nashua, N. IL, November 22, 1858. He fitted for 
Dartmouth in the public schools of his native city, liut deciding to at once engage in active 
life he entered the railroad service, and soon rose to the responsible position of chief clerk of 
the passenger and ticket department of the old Boston & Lowell R.R., where he remained 
for many years. Mr. Merrill took up his residence in Somerville in 18S0, and for fifteen years 
has resided in \Vard 4, taking an active interest in the development of that section of 
the city. He was elected to the City Council in 1889 and 1890, where he served 
on important conmiittees, and in the latter year was appointed to take charge of the detailed 
work of the Somerville Water Board, a municipal department which has been rapidly grow- 
ing in importance with the development of the city. Mr. Merrill is a member of the N. E. 
Water Works Association., of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., Caleb Rand Lodge, I. O. O. 
P., Elm Council, Royal Arcanum, and other societies, in which he has held offices of honor 
and trust. 

Mink, Louis, was born December 29, 1836, in the province of Alsace, in France, the 
son of Lawrence and Madeleine (Walder) Mink. He was educated in the schools of his 
native country, aiul emigrated to America in 1S60. arriving here in Novemlier of that year. 



^gS SOMERl'ILI.i:, PAST .LVD J'/yKSKXT. 

Soon after omiing to this country he became connected with tlic tannery of William Muller 
of North Cauibriilge, where he remaiiKcl five years. In 1S65 he cniharked in the curryiny 
business on his own account, on Ilaverliill street, Boston. In 186S he removed to I'earl 
street, and remained in that location until 1870, in which year he built the factory on the 
corner of Beacon and Sacramento streets in this city, now occupied by C. II. Cushman \ 
Co., where he'conducted an extensive business in currying leather, employing nearly one 
hundred men. In 188S he retired from business, and since that time has not rc-embarke<l 
in it. Mr. Mink was married to Kegina Fogel in 1865, and has seven children, four sons 
and three dau.yhters. He resides at 85 Elm street. 

Moore Henry Martyn, was born in North Brooklield, Worcester t ounty, in 1829, and 
spent his early life on a farm. In 1S52 he came to Boston and entered the hat store of 
lames W. I.ee.fwhere he remained until 1857, when the lirm failed. The next year, with 
Mr. Smith, his present partner, he bought out the business, and they have continued to- 
"ether to the present time. They are now the oldest concern in Boston in their line of 
business. For about seventeen years Mr. Moore traveled part of the time, selling goods in 
the West. Mr. Moore is well known as one of the leading men of the V. M. C. A. world, 
antl as such spreads the name and fame of Somerville wherever he goes. 

It is as a member of the international committee that Mr. Moore and his work are 
best known. This committee, composed of thirty-two prominent business-men, with head- 
(juarters in New York, has charge of all the V. M. C. A. work on the North American con- 
tinent, not only supervising the work of the existing associations, but also establishing and 
encouraging new associations. The work on the committee requires a good share of Mr. 
Moore's time, but he manages, in addition to this, to give considerable attention to other 
V. .M. C. A. and church work. In 1872 he assisted in forming the Massachusetts state 
committee of five, and he has been a member, with the exception of two years, ever since. 
With Mayor Ilodgkins and others, he was instrumental in forming the Somerville associa- 
tion a quarter of a century ago, and in its reorganization at a later period. He was president 
of the association in 1894. Mr. Moore is presi<lent of the board of trustees of Mr. 
Moody's Northfield Seminary, and is also trustee of Mt. Hermon School, having been inter- 
ested in them since their organization in 1880 and 1881. His connection with the Franklin- 
street Church, of which he has always been a prominent member, dates back to 1865. For 
fourteen years he has been deacon; he has also been chairman of the parish committee 
superintendent of the Sunday-school, and has held other positions in the church and 
Sunday-school. The only public office in this city which Mr. Moore has held is that of 
member of the School Committee. He began with the first board in 1872, and served 
thirteen years, resigning when he found that his other work was getting too burdens(mie 
for him. He has lived in Somerville since 1855. In 1865 he bought his present home at 
82 Myrtle street. He married, in 1849. Mary Farle, a native of Belchertown, ami has had 
six children, three of whom are now hving. 

Moore, Howard Dudley, the son of George and Charlotte C. Moore, was born at 
Moore's Mills, New P.runswick, November 21, 1854. He is a direct descendant in the fifth 
generation of William Moore, who came from Londonderry, Ireland, in 1709, and settled at 
I.onilonderry, N. II. His son William was a Tory, and in 17S5 removed to New Bruns- 
wick, where he received from the Crown a grant of land near the St. Croix River, the present 
location of the picturesque village of Moore's Mills. Young Moore attended the village 
school during the winter months until he was fifteen, and when seventeen years of age he 
went to Lawrence, Mass., where for two years he worked at a mechanical business, and for 
three years was clerk in a law office. During the live years he was in Lawrence he took an 
active part in temperance and other organizations. .\t the age of twenty-two he decided 
to become a lawyer, and feeling the need of an education he fitted for college at Nichols' 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AND FRESENT. 599 

Latin School, Lewiston, Me., graduating therefrom in 1880, and entered Bates College with 
the class of 1884, but was unable to pursue the college course. As a commercial traveler he 
spent one year in the Southern States, and in 1882 came to Boston, and was for three years 
manager of the New England agency of the " People's Cyclopifdia.'' In the meantime he 
kept up his studies, and in 1885 entered the lioston University School of Law, where he 
graduated in 1887. He was admitted to the Suffolk bar the same year, and commenced 
practice in Boston. Mr. Moore married Maud K. Roberts of Wollaston Heights in iSgi, 
and at that time came to Somerville to reside. They have one child, a daughter. Mr. 
Moore has been president of the West Somerville Republican ('lub, a member of the Repub- 
lican City Committee, was a member of the Common Council of 1895, ^"'^' ^ memlier of the 
Board of Aldermen in 1896. 

Moore, Hugh Tallant, son of John and Tabitha (Davis) Moore, was born in (.anler- 
Iniry, N. H., in i8oi,and died in 1855. He resided in Boston ten years, and moved to 
Somerville in 1840. He was a useful and esteemed citizen. At the time of his death he 
held the following offices : treasurer and tax collector of the town, constable and overseer of 
the poor, a funeral undertaker, and he was also one of the coroners of Middlesex County; 
all these oftices he held for several successive years. Mr. Moore left two children : Mrs. 
George W. Hadley and Mrs. Horace?. IMakechnie. 

Morse, Enoch R., was born in Attleboro, Mass., July 25, 1822. He established him- 
self in lousiness in lioston in 1839, removing to Somerville in 1852. He took an active part 
in town affairs, and was elected a member of the School Board in 1864. He held the position 
nine years, until after the incorporation of the city, and by his literary attainments and 
business experience was influential in promoting the educational interests of the town. He 
represented the city in the Legislature in 1876. So highly were his services appreciated by 
the town government that his name and memory were perpetuated in the Morse Cranirnar 
School, erected in 1869 on Summer street, while on the records of four other schools he 
appears as having been chosen to deliver the poem at the dedicatory exercises. 

Newton, Dr. Frank L. S., was born in Truro, Mass., April 9, 1S57, the son of Dr. 
Adin Hubl:)ard Newton, a practicing physician, and S. Anjenette Hatch, a lineal descendant 
of Dr. Jacques Jerauld (Gerould), a Huguenot who emigrated to this country in the eight- 
eenth century. His boyhood was passed with his parents in his native town and Chatham. 
He early became interested in the profession of his father, and in the pharmacy, subse- 
quently receiving the certificate of a registered pharmacist. In 1876 he accepted a position 
as grammar-school master at Essex, and afterwards was principal of the Westport High 
School. He took the medical degree of Boston I'niversity in 1884, and was house physi- 
cian in the Massachusetts Homoeopathic Hospital. He began the practice of medicine at 
Provincetown, where he was appointed a medical examiner of Barnstable County by Gov- 
ernor Robinson, was a surgeon of the United States Marine Hospital service, and physician 
to the Board of Health. Later he pursued a course of study in Europe in the General 
Hospital clinics at Vienna, and the Rotunda Hospitals, Dublin, taking the degree of L. M. 
After this year of studyhe came to Somerville, where he has since resided. He is a member 
of Boston University Alumni Association, the Hahnemann Society, the Massachusetts and 
the Boston Hom(eopathic Medical Societies, and the American Institute of Homoeopathy. 
In 1895 he was appointed a member of the medical board and medical and surgical staff of 
the Somerville Hospital. May 6, 1886, Dr. Newton married Miss Josephine Louise Lewis 
of Dartmouth, and they have two sons, Allison Lewis and Frank Hatch. Socially he is a 
member of the Central Club Association, Mystic Valley Club, the several Masonic lodges of 
Somerville, De Molay Commandery of Knights Templar of Boston, and is a thirty-second 
degree Mason. 



6oo soMERiii.i.i:. r.isr .\.\n rRi-.si-.xr. 

Nichols, George Leslie, swn nf Ccorj^'e N. ami Man Al)l)y ( IravL-rse ) Nichols, was 
horn June 2, i860, at HoUiston, Mass., and was educated in the }j;ranimar and liigh schools 
of that town, he studied drawing under a j^rivate tutor with a view to adopting architecture 
as a profession, and while engaged in that study w(»rkcd at the carpenter's trade. At the 
age of nineteen lie had charge of building a :>io,ooo house and staMc for George D. Kd- 
nuinds of Ilopedalc. lie followed the occu])alion of master builder until he was twenly- 
tive vears of age, when he began to practice the profession of architecture in South Iraiii- 
ingham, remaining in that town nine years, and moving to Somerville in 1S90. 

In 18S8 he became connected with \V. 1". Sears, architect of Boston, as Superintendent, 
of Construction, and was engaged in remodeling the Sears IJuiMing an<l in the construction 
of Hotel .Sanfor<l, an apartment-house costing S200,000, for Win. 1. Hart, president of thi- 
Continental Hank. Mr. Nichols oi)ened his present office at 70 Kili>y street, Boston, in 1892, 
since which time he has constructed Odd Fellows' Building in North Cambriiige, another 
large apartment-house for Mr. Hart, the Van Choate Electric Company's Factory plant 
at Foxborough, Mass., and other important buildings. He was married, June iS, 1885, to 
Miss Mary Fli/abeth Titcomb of Kennebunk, Me.; they have no children. Mr. Nichols is 
a member of the Framingham Lodge 145, I. < ). O. F., John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.. 
.Monotomy Chapter, R. \. M., New England Order of I'rotection, the Boston .Architectural 
Clul). and the Boston Society of Architects. He resides at 20 Chapel street. 

Nickerson, Alvano T., was born at Chatham, June 24, 1839, the son of Caleb and 
Julia A. ( Hamilton) Nickerson of that place. He was educated in the district school, and 
came to Boston in 1854. Prior to 1867 ^e was in business for himself in Chicago, as a 
member of the firm of Ryder t\; Nickerson, since which time he has been in business alone 
at Charlestown Bridge. Mr. Nickerson came to Somerville in 1882. He is a member of Paul 
Revere Lodge, L O. ( ). F., and a director of the Odd Fellows' Building Association, also a 
trustee for the Twenty .Associates, and a trustee of the Somerville Hospital. He served the 
city in the Common Council of 188S and 1889, and in the Board of Aldermen in 1890 and 
1S91. He has also been a member of the Board of Health since 1893. Mr. Nickerson 
married, in 1863, Laurietta Nickerson of Chatham. They reside at 334 Broadway. 

Nickerson, John F., was born October 13, 1846, at Provincetown, Mass., son of 
lonathan Land Rebecca 1 ). Nickerson. He received his education in the Provincetown 
schools and in the Creen Mountain Institute at South Woodstock, Vt. He commenced 
business in 1863 as clerk with Whiton Brothers \ Co. of Boston, and remained with them 
about two years. He then took a position as bookkeeper with Hinckley Brothers iS: Co., 
but was, on account of an accident, obliged to leave their employ after two years of service. 
He sul)sequentlv engaged in the grocery Inisiness with T. I). 1 )emond iV Co., on Broad 
street, was soon admitted to the firm, and some years later he purchased the entire business 
which was then carried on under the firm name of John F. Nickerson tS; Co.; at the present 
time it is a corporation known as the John F. Nickerscm Companv. of which Mr. Nickerson 
is the president. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., the Boston Wholesale 
Crocers' and Massachusetts Fish and Game Protective Associations, and the United Order of 
Workmen. Mr. Nickerson was married to Georgiana P. Langmaid of Charlestown, Mass., 
June I, 1869; they have three daughters, and have resided at 25 Flint street since June i, 
1869. He was two years a member of the Somerville Water Board, but the pressure of his 
business has always prcvcnlcd his holding other offices in the service of the city. 

Norcross, Joseph Leiand, was born in Woodbury, Vt., December 6, 1834. At the age 
of twenty-one years he came to Boston, where he engaged in the teaming business, having 
his headquarters at ( iiy Wharf until 1873, when he removed to his present place of business 
at 212 State street. In January, 1871, he was married and became a resident of Somerville, 
jiurchasing the estate No. Co Marshall street, where he resides at the present time. Mr. 




J. Leland Norcross. 




Mrs. J. C. NouRSE. 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 603 

Norcross has been identified witli a number of Somerville institutions from their first incep- 
tion. He withdrew from FranlcUn Lodge, I. O. C). F., of I'.oston, to assist in the organiza- 
tion of Paul Revere Lodge of this city, and has been treasurer of that lodge since its founda- 
tion in 1878. He is also a charter member of Winter Hill Encampment. In 18S4, when 
the Odd Fellows organized a building committee to erect the substantial brick building on 
the corner of Broadway and Marshall street, Mr. Norcross was elected treasurer of the 
building association, a position which he has retained until the present time. He has always 
been actively interested in the Winter HillUniversalist Church, which he assisted to organize 
in June, 1878. In 1879 and iSSo he served the city as a Common Cuuncilman, and in the 
two following years as an Alderman. Mr. Norcross has been one of the directors of the 
Master Teamsters' Association of Boston since its formation, and is now president of the 
association. 

Nourse, Mrs. J. C, daughter of Tappan and Katie (Cummings) Libliy, was born in 
.Scarborough, Me., August 28, 1854. She was educated in the public schools of her native 
town, and in the Casco-street Seminary of Portland. In 1875 she was married to Mr. 
Charles Nourse. In 1881, her natural tastes being for a business life, she commenced in a 
rather small way in North Cambridge, where she continued until the autumn of 1886, when 
she removed to Davis square, and occupied the store Nos. 10 and 1 1 in Medina Building. 
Her increasing business in the years tliat followed demanding more room, she arranged to 
have one-half of the new Chapin Building tinished and furnished to suit her ideas of what a 
modern dry goods store should be, and when it was ready for occupancy, she removed from 
her old quarters in June, 1896, and now has in the new store what is termed by a dry goods 
journal of New York "the largest establishment of the kind in New England, managed by 
a lady." Her emporium is arranged in an exceedingly attractive manner, and her continued 
increasing patronage demonstrates that her efforts to give the residents of West Somerville 
and vicinity a first-class dry goods store are appreciated. 

Noyes, Frank A., was bom at Auburn, Me., May 9, 1S50. After receiving his edu- 
cation at the public schools of that city, and the Auburn Commercial College, he secured a 
position in Portland, where he remained for three years, as bookkeeper for J. H. Cressey & 
Co. In 1872 the firm removed to Boston, locating at 208 State street, with whom he con- 
tinued for ten years, and then entered the firm as Cressey & Noyes, remaining there until the 
completion of the Chamber of Commerce Building in 1892. There he is now located as a 
member of the firm of Noyes & Colby, in the wholesale grain business. Mr. Noyes has been 
connected with the grain trade of Boston for the past twenty-four years, and is favorably 
known throughout New England and the West. He is a member of the Boston Chamber 
of Commerce, and is now one of the directors of that institution. 

In 1874 he married Miss Anna R. Mason of Portland, Me., and they selected Somer- 
ville for their future home, and have since that time been residents of this city. Mr. Noyes 
has always taken an interest in fraternal organizations, and is a member of Soley Lodge, F. 
A. A. M., Excelsior Council, R. A., Sons of Maine, and is a past officer of Oasis Lodge, 
Somerville Encampment, Ivaloo Rebekah Lodge, I. O. O. F.. Highland Chapter, Order 
Eastern Star, and at the present time is associate grand patron, O. E. S. of Massachusetts. 
He resides at 95 Highland avenue. 

Park, Elbridge G., was born in Ashby, Mass., in 1S39. He received his education in 
the district and high schools of his native town, and came to Boston in i860, and engaged in 
the produce trade, in which he remained two years. He then entered the restaurant busi- 
ness, and has continued in it for over thirty years, conducting large and successful estabhsh- 
ments at No. 30 North Market and 123 Causeway streets, Boston, under the firm names of 
Durgin, Park & Co., and E. G. Park e^ Co. He removed from (/harlestown to East Somer- 
ville in 1874, and has resided here since that time. 



^•9fe 




Elbridge G. Park. 



SOMERllLLE^ PAST AND PRESENT. 605 

In 1884 he represented Ward i in the Common Council, and was re-elected in 1S85. 
lie served on the Board of Aldermen in 1886 and 1887, and was president of the board the 
last-named year, serving on some of the most important committees. Mr. Park is a member 
of the Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., and the Cceur de Lion Commandery, K. T., of Charlestown ; 
lie is also a member of the Howard Lodge, L O. O. V ., of Charlestown. 

Parker, Frederick Wesley, was born in Boston, May 9, 1863, son of Jerome W. and 
Ann Eliza (Wright) Parker. He is of old New England stock, being a direct descendant, 
in the eighth generation, of Francis Cook, who came over in the Mayflower in 1620. Mr. 
Parker received a good commnn-school education, and at the age of seventeen took a minor 
clerkship in the banking office of Perkins, Dupee cV: Co., 40 State street. He rose rapidly, and 
in 1888 engaged in business on his own account, forming with Arthur W. Sawyer and Hazen 
Clement the firm of Sawyer, Clement lS: Co. In 1892 Mr. Sawyer retired, and the firm became 
Clement, Parker&Co., and continues as such at the present time, being located at 53 Devonshire 
street, Boston. They have been successful, and are quoted among the leading firms in the bank- 
ing business. Mr. Parker served in the Common Council of Somerville in 1894 and 1895, and 
was on the Finance and Public Property Committees. He is a director in the Somerville 
National Bank; a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.; Somerville Chapter, R. A. M.; 
Orient Council, and De Molay Commandery; is also a member of the Central Club, the 
Charlestown Club, the Exchange Club of Boston, and the "Society of Mayflower Descen.l- 
ants." He married Miss Nellie E. Blodgett of Cambridge, June 15, 1887; they have one 
child, Mildred, and reside at 65 Boston street. 

Parsons, Horace M., the son of Daniel W. and Mary P. Parsons, was born in I^ock- 
l)ort, Mass., in 1864. When three months of age his parents moved to Boston, residing at 
the historical " North End," and the son attended the famous Eliot School, going suijse- 
quently to the English High. Young Parson's first situation was at the drug store of Theo- 
dore Metcalfe Co., but fifteen years ago he entered the employ of Bigelow, Dowse & Ma- 
comber, as a boy, and has remained with this concern ever since, working his way up through 
various grades, until he is now head bookkeeper and cashier of the leading hardware corpora- 
tion in New England. Nine years ago he was married to Annie L. Millett, but she died soon 
after their marriage. In March, 1895, he married Sadie C. Saurman, and they now reside 
in an attractive home on Prospect Hill. When the Somerville Light Infantry was being reor- 
ganized, young Parsons, then twenty-two years of age, offered himself as a member. He was 
then six feet and four inches tall, and was a striking figure in the company. He was made 
a sergeant Sept. 9, 1887, and less than two years afterwards second and then first lieutenant. 
Upon the discharge of Captain Kirk he was elected captain, and has held the position tor 
nearly five years, with great credit and marked ability. He was recently elected a major of 
the Eighth Infantry, but declined the position. 

Parkhurst, Melville C, chief of police of the city of Somerville, was born in Stand- 
ish, Me., April 26, 1842, son of John L. and Marcia (Harriman) Parkhurst. He was edu- 
cated there and came to Somerville in 1857. August 12, 1S62, he enlisted in Company E 
of Somerville, Thirty-Ninth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers. He was in defense of 
Washington until 1863, and then was sent with the Army of the Potomac, and was in all its 
great battles from the Wilderness to Appomattox. June 5, 1865, he was mustered out as 
lieutenant, the governor having issued to him a commission as captain, on which, however, 
the war being over, he was not musteied in, althoiigh he had for several months commanded 
his company as captain in the field. May 29, 1868, he received his appointment to the Somer- 
ville pohce force. He was appointed captain, April i, 1871, and chief, in January, 1872. It 
is a noteworthy fact that Chief Parkhurst has made himself so familiar with criminal law 
that in all important cases in Somerville he conducts personally the case of the government. 
He also drew the petition and drafted the bill passed by the Legislature in 1882, giving police 





/ 



r 



li 




Frederick W. PAHKiiH. 



S0MER17LLE, J'AST AND PRESE/VT. 607 

officers authority to ssiid samples of liquor seized on search warrants to the state or other 
authorized assayer — thus making it possible to learn accurately and officially if such liquor 
contains more than the three per cent of alcohol allowed by law. Chief I'arkhurst is a mem- 
Ijer of John Abbot Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, and Cceur de 
Lion Commandery, K. T., and of several other local fraternal organizations. In 1865 he was 
married to Mary E., daughter of James and Ruth (Ikitler) Coolidge of Waltliam, bv whom 
he has two cliilch-en. 

Perkins, George W., son uf True and Mary Ann (Chai)nian) Perkins, was born in 
Tamworth, N. IL, July i, 1842. lie was educated in the common schools of his native town, 
and in the New Hampton Listitution, Xew Hampton. N. II. lie taught in Xew Hampshire 
two years, and then came to Boston, where he entered the dry goods business, in which he 
remained three years. Lor the six following years he occupied the position of traveling 
salesman for A. Showe ec Co., wholesale tea and coffee dealers, was then admitted a member 
of the lirm, and is now manager of the business. Mr. Perkins has resided in Somerville for 
twenty-five years. He represented this city in the House of Representatives in 1891, and 
served as chairman of the committee on drainage. He was re-elected in 1892, and served t)n 
the committee on cities. In 1S95 he was elected to the Senate, and was chairman of the 
committee on printing, and a member of the committees on education and on metropolitan 
affairs. In 1896 he was again elected to the Senate, and served as chairman of the com- 
mittee on public service, and as a member of the committees on education and melrt)politan 
affairs. He married Miss Minerva R. lierry of Westminster, Vt., and they reside at 3 Pearl 
street. Mr. Perkins is a member of the Royal Arcanum, the A. O. U.W., a trustee of the Som- 
erville Hospital, of Somerville Masonic Apartments, a member of the Webcowit Social Club, 
and a member of the Knights of Honor. Lie is past master of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., 
member of the Somerville R. A. Chapter, the ( )rient Council of Select Masters, and is senior 
warden of the De Molay Commandery, K. T., of Boston. He is also a member of the 
Massachusetts Republican Club, the Mystic Valley Club, and the Metropolitan Young Men's 
Republican Club. 

Perry, Albion A., was born in Standish, Me., January 26, 1851. the son of Rev. fohn 
C. and Mary E. (Boston) Perry. He was educated in the pubUc schools and at Monmouth 
Academy. He came to Somerville in 1869, and for several years carried on the drug liusi- 
ness with marked success. He fitted himself for the profession of pharmacist at the Mas- 
sachusetts College of Pharmacy. After retiring from the drug business he took up the studv 
of law at the Boston University School of Law, and later opened an office in Somerville. In 
1886 he associated himself with Hon. S. Z. Bowman, and the jjartnership has continued to 
the present time. Mr. Perry has served the city in many different capacities. He was elected 
to the School Board, but served only one year, 1876, resigning on account of his business, 
which demanded his time. He was a member of the Common Council in 18S1 and 1882, 
being president the second term. In 1883-1884 he was in the Board of Aldermen. He was 
appointed on the Water lioard by Mayor Pope in 1891 for two years, and was president of the 
board both years. At the end of his term he was urged strongly l)y Mayor Hodgkins to ac- 
cept reappointment. In 1895 he was elected to the office of mayor after one of the warmest 
political contests ever held in this State, was re-elected in 1896, and he has filled the office 
with an ability that has commanded the respect of everyone. 

Mr. Perry was elected president of the Somerville Savings Bank after the death of Oren 
S. Knapp in 1891, a position he still holds, and he has shown his qualifications as a financier, 
by building up a strong instituticm, the business of the bank during the five years that he has 
held the office having had a tremendous growth; he is also a director in the Somerville Na- 
tional Bank. Mr. Perry has ever shown the liveliest interest in all matters relating to the 
welfare of Somerville, and has discharged the duties of everv office to which he has been 



6oS si).ui:r\/i.li:. iwsr .\xn rRESKxr. 

called with tlic utiiinst lidclity ami (.niiscicntiousiiess. Mr. I'tMry mairicil Mary ll., ilau.!,'htLT 
of Johti \V. and Hannah \\ . ISrooks of this city. 

Perry, Oliver H., sun uf David ami I'hcbe Pcrrv, and a descendant uf Cunnnodure Oli- 
ver Hazard Perry, was born at ( 'hatau(|ua, N. V. When about ten years ^j{ age his parents 
removed to Plattsbiirg, N. V., where he was educated in the common schools and at t'linton 
Academy. lie has been engaged in the real estate and insurance business for the past twelve 
vears in West Somerville, with an olVice at Davis square and another at 31 Milk street, Bos- 
ton. Me maiTied Miss Harriet Gilmore of Hillsboro, X. H., and has a family of six sons and 
two daughters. Since 1890 he has been secretary and treasurer of the West Somerville (."o- 
uperative Hank, of which he was the originator. 'Hie bank, which began with an issue of 
eight hundred and ten shares for its tlrst series, has shown a constant growth from its in- 
ception, anil now has assets of over §150,000. It has proved a great incentive to very many 
West .Somerville residents, especially the young, to lay by a portion of their earnings, and a 
great help to a large numi>er who have bought homes through its agency. 

Mr. Perry is well known in the city as an active and industrious man, and has a large 
clientele in his various lines of b.usiness. He built his first residence eight years ago at 373 
VXm. street, on what was known as the old Powder House farm. Three years later the first 
house was moved away, and another and finer one was erected, in which he now resides. He 
has also built for others, and sold a large number of houses in that locality. The Nathan 
Tufts Park, lately constructed by the city, enclosing the old Powder House, makes this lo- 
cality one of the most desirable for residential purposes in Somerville. Mr. Perry is a mem- 
ber of the John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., a charter member of Caleb Rand Lodge, I. ( I. 
( ). F., a meml)er of (lolden Cross C'ommandery of West Somerville, and a member of tiie 
Park-avenue M. K. ( hurch. 

Phillips, Franklin Folsom, son of James and Mary (Prescott) I'hillips, was born in 
Searsniont, Me., December 21, 1.S52. He was educated at the town schools of Searsmont 
and Montville, at the Nichols Latin School, and at Hates College, Lewiston, Me., receiving 
the degree of A. M. on the completion of his studies. After graduating he taught in ]>olt<in. 
Mass., and in Lisbon and Rockland, Mc., being principal of the High School at the latter 
place five years. He was commissioned State .-Vssayer of Maine in 1880 for a term of four 
years. Since 1883 he has been connected with the old and extensive chemical manufactur- 
ing house of Harrison Hros. tV Co., of Philadelphia and New York, his work being both tech- 
nical and commercial. He has served in the city government four years, 1890- 1 894, two 
years in the Common Council and two in the Hoard of Aldermen, and was a member of the 
committees on ordinances, sewers, fire department, public property and finance, serving (Jii 
the latter committee the entire four years. Mr. Phillips is much engrossed with his business, 
but takes a deep interest in public matters. In politics he is a Republican, and as such was 
elected a member of the (General Court in 1896. He resides at 21 1 Holland street. 

Pillsbury, Luther B., was bom in Hridgewater, N. II. He worked on the farm in 
early life, and by his own efforts was fitted for college at the New Hampshire Institution, and 
graduated in the class of 1859 at Dartmouth College. He taught while yet a student, l)e- 
ginning his first school before his sixteenth birthday, .\fter graduating he taught in Can- 
ton, in the Reading High .School, the Hopkinton and Hridgewater High Schools, the Pres- 
cott Grammar and Charlestown High School. He had great influence with his pupils. .\ 
teacher, having an intimate ac<|uaintance with Mr. Pillsbury "s methoils, asserting that he 
'• never saw a man «lio could keep such gooil order with so little ai)parent effort as he." 
Mr. Pillsbury was unanimously elected to the Common Council of Somerville, and in 1S7S 
was president of that body, receiving all the V(3tes but his own and one other. He has for 
several years been engaged in the real estate and insurance business, and is located at 311) 
Hroadway. He resides at 45 Sargent avenue. Mr. Pillsbury has been twice married. His 




Franklin F. Phillips. 



6 Id soMERi'ii.i.i:, r.isr .\.\n i'resiixt. 

lirst wife was Miss Mary A. Leathe of Reatlinfj, the aullmr of " ( )U1 Mill and other Poems"; 
ami his second. Mrs. Mary A. I.iliby of Somerville. He has four children: Edwin 15., who 
is engaged in newspaper work; ICrnesl D., a practicing physician; May I-'., a teacher; and 
llarry N., the famous chess-])layer. 

Pitman, Henry W., was born in Boston, May 17, 1S45, ^^ *^'" "'^ David I", and 
( aroline C. Titman. lie was educated in the Kliot and Latin High Schools of Boston. He 
moved to Medford wlicii thirteen years of age. After leaving school he engaged in various 
occupations, and entered journalism twenty-eight years ago. He has been connected with 
Boston dailies and weeklies in various capacities, from the lowest to the highest positions. ' 
For seventeen years he was coimecteil with the " Somerville Journal," init is now engaged in 
general newspaper work. He is a member of several fraternal organizations, and is a thirty- 
second degree Mason. When the Somerville Light Infantry was reorganized, largely through 
his efforts, he was elected first lieutenant, and was subseijuently chosen captain. He was 
adjutant-general of the semi-centennial j^arade in Somerville in 1892, and has been identi- 
lied with many events in the city's history. Captain I'itman has always taken a li\ely 
interest in politics, and for sixteen years has been secretary of the Middlesex County Ke- 
jniblican Committee. He married Miss Lottie A., daughter of Simeon and Mary Jenkins, 
at Medford, June 5, 1867. They have four children. 

Poole, George S., was born in Worcester, the youngest of a family of six children. 
His parents were Lliza (Wilder) and Ward Poole, the latter a descendant of the seventh 
generation of John I'oole, who came from Reading, England, and settled first in Cambriilge 
( 1632) and later at Reading (1639), where he was one of the^ leading proprietors. George 
S. I'oole attended school at Worcester and at Peabcdy (formerly South Danvers), and while 
at the Peabody High School was assistant librarian of the Peabody Library. Before gradu- 
ating at the High School, he spent nearly two years with a brother, a mining engineer at 
Pottsville, Pa. Coming home, he went to the Phillips Academy at Andover. In 1861 he 
became the lirst librarian of the Charlestown Pul)lic Library, which position he held for 
two vears, when he accepteil a position of assistant librarian of the Library of Congress at 
Washington. In 1865 he resigned, having been a])pointed the secretary of the Warren 
Institution for Savings, which position he still hoUfs. He has been the treasurer of the Win- 
throp Church, Charlestown, for over twenty years. He was on the School Board of Charles- 
town, and is at present one of the School Committee of Somerville, is also on the board 
of managers of the Winchester Home for Aged Women at Charlestown, the Congregational 
Church Union, and the City Missionary Society of Boston. He is auditor of the Boston 
Ccmgregalional Club, a member of the Boston Bank Officers' Association, Henry Price 
Lodge, F. A. A. M., Royal Arcanum, Corinthian Yacht Club of Marblehead, is the sec- 
retary of the Marblehead-.Xeck Hall Association, a meml)er of the Alumni Association of 
Phillips Academy and the Bunker Hill Monument Association. He married, in 1871, Sarah 
Poor Osborne, the daughter of F'ranklin and Nancy Poor (Jacobs) of Peabody; and his 
chil'lren are Franklin Osborne (II. C., 1895), Edith Wilder, and Irving. 

Poor, Franklin N., was born in (ioffstown, N. H., January 23, 1821. He remained at 
home, engaged w iih his father, the Hon. Xoyes Poor, in the lumber business, until he reached 
the age of twenty-seven, when he accepted the position of treasurer of the Manchester anil 
North Weare Railroad Company. Since that time his interest has centered mainly in rail- 
roads. He came to Boston in 1852, and was a prominent director in the Vermont and 
Massachusetts and Fitchburg Railroad Companies for many years. In 1864 he became 
treasurer of the A'ermont and Massachusetts Railroad Company, the position he still holds, 
serving meantime as trustee of estates, etc. He removetl to Somerville in 1871, and resides 
at 30 Chester street. He was a member of the Board of Aldermen in 1874, is a justice of the 
jieace, and is one of our well-known and most respected citizens. 



SOMHRllLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 6ll 

Pope, Charles G., was Ixirn in 1 lardwick, Mass., November iS, 1840, the son of Rev. 
Rufus S. and Sarah ( llrowii ) Pope, of that town. He was educated in the district school of 
Hyannis, whither liis ])arents had removed in his boyhood, was fitted for college at the Pierce 
Academy, Middleboro, and was graduated at Tufts College in 1S61. He taught school at 
Hyannis till 1864, when he became master of the Forster (Irammar School in Somerville. 
In 1S70 he became master of the liunker Hill Grammar School, Charlestown. Mr. Pope 
studied law with Sueetzer cK; Gardner and John W. Hammond, and was admitted to the bar 
in 1874, when he formed a partnership with Mr. Hammond for the ])ractice of law in Boston. 
In 1878 he was appointed a special justice of the Somerville police court. Mr. Pope came 
to Somerville in 1S64. and served in tlie Common Councils of 1872 and 1S73, being President 
of the (Anincil the latter year. In 1S76 and 1S77 lie represented the city in the Legislature, 
and was Mayor in 1SS9, iSgoand 1S91. He was a trustee of the Public Library seven years. 
He was also a trustee of Tufts College. Mr. Pope married Miss Josephine H., daughter of 
Erastus E. and Harriet N. (/ole, of this city. During Mr. Pope's last year of office as Mayor, 
the Charles G. Pope School on Washington street was completed and named in his honor. 

Pratt, Josiah N., was born in Freeport, >.Ie., March 14, 1838. He attended the 
public schools of tliat town, and at the age of eighteen apprenticed himself to learn the 
mason's trade. He worked at that occujiation in Portland, >de., tliree vears, l^eing employed 
on Fort Gorges, Portland Ilarl)or, as a skilled mechanic. He enlisted in the United States 
Xavy, and was sent to the Ibdf Squa<lron which was stationed at Mobile Bay; his term of 
service expired September l, 1S65. After the great fire in Portland in 1S86, Mr. Pratt was 
in charge of the construction of some of the most prominent buildings in the cits'. In 1868 
he moved to Lawrence, Mass., where he carried on the business of builder. About 1882 
he entered the employ of the Jarvis Engineering Co. as mechanical superintendent; after a 
short service in that position he was given the agency of the company for Maine, New 
Hampshire and the lower maritime provinces. He was subsecjuently transferred to the 
agency for the Middle States, with his office in New York City; and was finally, in 18S7, ap- 
pointed treasurer and general manager of the parent company, with office at 61 Oliver street, 
lioston, which position he still holds. Mr. Pratt has served our city in the Common Coun- 
cil, and was elected a member of the lioard of Aldermen from Ward I in 1895 '^"'I 1896. 
He is a member of liethany Commandery, K. T., Royal Arch Chapter, Soley Lodge, 
F. .V. A. M., Knights of Honor, and the Grand Army of the Republic. He resides at t^t, 
I'ranklin street. 

Prichard, John P., is the son of A. P. and Mary J. Prichard,and was l>orn in Charles- 
town, educated at old Training Field and other schools, and hail a boyhood which fitted him 
to meet life in any phase that might come to him. He was a conductor and then road 
master of the old Middlesex Horse Railroad for many years. During Mayor Belknap's term 
of service he was elected Superintendent of Streets, and his ability showed itself in every 
possilile way. After going to Everett for one year to fill the same position, he then left to 
go to Quincy as its Street Superintendent. After two years the town changed to a city, and 
Mr. Prichard was elected the first Commissioner of Public Works. He planned and caused 
to be built under his immediate supervision the Neponset Bridge, and proved his ability to 
build bridges with the same skill in which he had built the roads in this city and elsewhere. 
When the new city of Medford needed a Superintendent of Streets, Mayor Lawrence wisely 
appointed Mr. Prichard to the position, and he put into his work the same earnestness, 
efficiency and honesty that had always characterized his efforts. He won the respect and 
admiration of the City Council and the citizens, and was gaining friends when, in January, 
1896, he was called back to Somerville, to again serve her as he had so ably done in the 
many years he was here. The streets, at once, put on a new look, and much new work and 
many improvements are now on the wav. 




John p. Prichard. 



SOMIiRlVLLE, PAST .LVD /'RESENT. 613 

That Mr. Prichard is an adept in liis line has been many times exemplified. He has 
made addresses, written much, and on one occasion, among twenty-one competitors for the 
Engineering Record " prize, he was the leader. It is needless to recite further of his quali- 
fications. His tact to manage men, his knowledge and dexterity are all known by the 
results he has achieved. .Mr. Prichard married early in life, and has two sons, ( Jeorge W. 
and Charles E., and a daughter, Mrs. Emma Prichard Hadley. the reader wife of Walt^'er M.' 
Hadley. His great-grandfather on his mother's side was a participant in throwing the tea 
into Boston Harbor, living at Charlestown at the time. When Charlestown was burned, this 
ancestor went to Maiden, but returned, roofed the cellar over, and for a long time he' and 
his family lived therein. Mr. Prichard is a veteran fireman, a Knight Templar, Knight of 
Honor, Companion in the Royal Arcanum, a member of the Training Field School Associa- 
tion, and a Universalist. 

Proctor, George 0., was l)orn in Rockingham, Vt., February 23, 1S47, and is a 
descendant of the well-known Proctor family of that State. His early Hfe was passed on the 
farm, and his education was obtained in the schools „f his native town and in the Chester, 
^•t., Academy. He f..llo\ved the occupation of farming and lumbering until 1874, when he' 
came to Postun an,l formed a copa.tnership with his brother in the grain business, under 
the firm name of Proctor ISrothers. fhey located at the corner of Charles and Leverett 
streets, at the end of Craigie Bridge, where they conducted a successful business, until the 
construction of the Charles River Park compelled them to seek a new location; this they 
found at the Cambridge end uf the bridge, where they now remain, theirs being one of the 
largest establishments in the hay and grain trade in the vicinity of Ik.ston. Mr. Proctor 
was married in 1869 to LiUie A., daughter of Cajitain Thomas R. Clark of Chester, Vt., 
who served through the War of the Rebellion in Company E, Sixth Regiment. In 18S0 he 
purchased the estate on which he still resides, at 44 Spring street. Spring Hill. He was 
elected to the Common Council in 1SS7 and 1888, and served as president of that body in 
the latter year, and as a meml,er of the School Committee. He was elected a member of 
the Legislature in 1892, and served on the committee on street railways, and was re-elected 
in 1893, and was placed on the committee on cities. Mr. Proctor is a director of the 
Somerville National Bank, and is a member of the Boston Chamber of Commerce, Somer- 
ville Central Club, Soley Lodge. F. A. A. M., Winter Hill Commanderv, Golden Cross, 
Washington (Cuncil, Home Circle, Delft Haven Colony of Pilgrim Fathers, and the First 
I'nitarian Church. 

Ralph, Mrs. Harriet A., was born in Camden N. J., March 20, 1851, and is a 
daughter of the late Joseph P. and Hannah E. Myers. She was educated in the public and 
private schools of Boston, where her parents resided for many years. In 1874 she married 
William N. Ralph, and has lived in Somerville twenty-two years. She has been prominent 
in church work, and also in the woman's branch of Odd Fellowship, her husband being one 
of the leading (3dd Fellows in Massachusetts. She has l)een treasurer of Ivaloo Lodge, 
Daughters of Rebekah, and higher offices in its gift have been tendered her. It is, how- 
ever, in societies founded on patriotic work that Mrs. Ralph is best known. The late 
Brigadier-General William W. Bullock was her uncle, and her father was a lieutenant in 
Company G, Eleventh Massachusetts Regiment. She was a member of the La<lies'Aid 
Society, formed in 1871 as an auxiliary to Joseph Hooker Post of East Boston, She is a 
charter member of Willard C. Kinsley Relief Corps of Somerville, and has served as presi- 
<!ent and secretary. She has been prominent in state conventions, and in 1886 she was 
elected department treasurer. After serving with great ei^ciency for three years, she 
declined a re-election, on account of illness, but served as a member of the Department 
Executive Board two successive years. She was prominent in the arrangements for national 
encampment week in P.oston in 1S90, and a member of the Executive and other W. R. C. 



6 1 4 soMERiii.i.i:, J'. IS/- .Lvn /'A'/:s/:x/\ 

(ominiltecs. She was a (Iclet^atc-at-large to tliis cdiivciilion, and as cliairman tif the- 
l-'iiiaiice Coniniittee hail charge of several thousand dollars contributed to the encampment 
fund bv the corps. Mrs. Ralph has been department junior vice-president, department 
press correspondent, and in 1893 and 1894 was department chaplain. Owing to illness in 
her home she declined to be a candidate for the oftice of department president. Mrs. Ralph 
has also been active in the Ladies' Aid Association of the Soldiers' Home in Massachusetts, 
serving on the committee that drafted its constitution, and as corresponding secretary of 
the association for three years. Upon declining a re-election in 1886, a valuable silver 
service was presented her, accompanied by an engrossed testimonial expressing the regard 
of the members and their appreciation of her eflicient services. In public and private life 
Mrs. Ralph has the esteem of all her associates. 

Ralph, William H., was bom in Kingston, Out., June 12, 1S49; .soon after his birlli 
his parents moved to (.■aml)ridge, .Mass., ami he was ciiucatcd in tlie schools of that city. In 
1 868 he entered the employ of Messrs. Andrews and Stevens, provision dealers, 47 IJrom- 
tield street, Boston, remaining with that firm until 1880, when he formed a copartnership 
with F. M. Reed, and located at 53 Charles street, Hoston. In February, 1896. the tirni 
dissolved, and Mr. Ralph entered the hrm of J. W. Smith cS: Co., at 17 Faneuil Hall square, 
lioston. In May, 1874, he married Miss Harriet A. Myers, only daughter of Lieutenant 
Joseph P. Myers, a veteran of the Civil War, and in September of the same year he became 
a resident of .Somerville, and immediately identified himself with its social and public 
interests. In 1881 he united with Oasis Lodge, I. ( ). O. F., and has served in many of the 
offices, and for several years was active in committee work; as past grand of Oasis Lodge 
he entered the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and has served that body on prominent 
committees. He is also past chief patriarch of Somerville Fncampment, I. O. O. F. ; and in 
February, 1895, was elected grand junior warden of the Grand Encampment of Massa- 
chusetts, serving one year, but owing to change of business was obliged to decline further 
advancement; he has served as district deputy grand patriarch, the district comprising 
W'altham and Stoneham. 

When the military branch of Odd Fellowship was organized, he entered heartily into 
its plans; in 1886 was elected commandant of Canton Washington, serving three years; 
while holding this office he organized a drill corps; in 1888 they entered the international 
competitive drill, which took place in Cincinnati, O., this corps winning three prizes; for 
several years the corps was well known throughout the State for its efficiency in display 
drill, giving many exhibitions. On retiring from the office of commandant, he was elected 
colonel of the Second Regiment, Patriarchs Militant, holding the commission two years. In 
the semi-centennial procession in 1892 Mr. Rali)h commanded the fourth division, which 
comprised the Masonic an<l Odil l"'ellow organizations of this city. He is also past grand 
of Ivaloo Lodge No. 7, D. of R.; past regent. Excelsior Council No. 3. Royal Arcanum; 
and a member of John .\bi)ot Lodge, A. F. and A. M., and of Winter Hill Lodge No. 18. 
.\. O. L. W. 

Raymond, Francis H., was born in Charlestown, February 19, 1836, the son of 
Francis L. aixl .\bigail (Fosdick) Raymond. He attended the juiblic schools of the town, 
and after leaving the high school entered the employ of J. U. Hanson, in the wholesale 
grocery business in IJoston. He was afterwards with Robinson iV Holbrook, and in 1865 the 
lirm of Robinson, Xourse i!v: Raymond was formed. F. 11. Raymond tV Co. were its successors. 
In 1876 Mr. Raymond left the grocery business and became treasurer of the American Arms 
< "ompany, in which he was interested. Two years later he was chosen treasurer of the Cam- 
bridge Electric Light Company, which position he now holds. He has been a director of the 
Market National Rank for the past twenty-two years. Mr. Raymond was a trustee of the 
I'ulilic Library in iS;^, 1S77 and 1S7S. In 1SS7 he was elected to represent Ward 2 in the 




Residence of L\man B. Rich, ^Sl Medford Street. 




Wilfred B. Rich. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 6l/ 

House of Representatives, where he served three years, iSSS, 1S89 and 1890. lie was 
Senator in 1891 and 1892, and a member of the ('luvernor's Council in 1895 ^""^^ iSg6. Mr. 
Raymond married Martha L., daughter of Samuel T. and Sarah (Ilohhs) Frost, of St)mer- 
ville. They reside on Laurel street. 

Raymond, Marcus M., \\as horn in Boxboro, Mass., February i, 1841, son of Nathan 
and Hannah ( llaiigoiHJ) Raymond. He received his education in the schools of Boxboro, 
Princeton and Lowell, and after leaving school worked five years on the farm; he then 
learned the machinist's trade at Lowell, and worked at it six years. He subsequently came 
to Boston, and embarked in the milk business, in which he was engaged about thirty years. 
iVfter a residence of six years in Charlestown he came to Somerville in 1873, and located on 
Jaques street, in the house which he now occupies. iMr. Raymond is a memljer of Winter 
Hill Lodge, Knights of Honor, and represents Ward 3 in the City Council. 

Reed, Nathan H., son of Nathan O. and Nancy (Bacon) Reed, was born in Bedford, 
Mass., May 25, 1848. He finished his education at Lawrence Academy, (Jroton, and came 
to Somerville twenty-seven years ago. He has served the city as Councilman, Alderman, 
Overseer of the Poor, and is now one of the principal assessors. Mr. Reed has been for 
seven years chairman of the standing committee of the P'irst Unitarian Church, and has 
l^een treasurer of the Associated Charities of Somerville since its organization. He was en- 
gaged in the provision business for many years, — later in real estate, and at the present time 
at the foundry on Washington street, and has now many interests in real estate in Somerville 
and elsewhere. Mr. Reed is a member of Soley Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Oasis Lodge, 
I. O. O. ¥., and Washington Council, Home Circle. He married Clara B. Parker of liillerica, 
and they have two children, Nathan Parker and Mary Baldwin. He resides in a handsome 
residence, erected by him during the past year at 35 Pearl street. 

Rich, Lyman B., was born at Truro, Mass., in 1834, the son of Zephaniah and Betsey 
(Bangs) Rich. He was educated in the public schools and in the academy, of which Joshua 
H. Davis, former superintendent of Somerville sch(jo]s, was principal. He married Mary 
Ellen Mayo, daughter of Captain Nehemiah and Eunice B. (Stone) Mayo, and has one child. 
He, like many others of the sons of Cape Cod, began to " follow the sea " when quite young, 
and at the early age of eighteen he became a captain. His vuyages, which have been many 
and to various ports, terminated with a trip to the Mediterranean and to South America, on 
which voyage he >vas accompanied by his family. .Since retiring from life on the ocean, in 
1878, he has been engaged in the ship brokerage business and steamboat agency, and is a 
member of the firm of Atwood & Rich, 83 Commercial Wharf, Boston. Captain Rich re- 
moved from Provincetown to Somerville in 1878. He is a member of King Hiram Lodge, 
F. A. A. ivL, and Joseph Warren Chapter of Provincetown; is also a member of the Boston 
Marine Society. He resides at 381 Medford street. 

Rich, Wilfred Babson, the son of Ransom and P. Laurette (Chase) Rich, was born 
in Jackson, Me., April 21, 185^- His ancestors were, on both sides, among the earliest 
pioneers of the State. In his infancy his parents moved to Bangor, Me., and in his seven- 
teenth year to Brooks, in the same State. At this time he had completed the studies then 
taught in the public schools, but was not satisfied with this, and during the next five years, 
depending almost wholly on his own efforts, by teaching school during the winter months, 
he obtained a liberal education, attending the state college at Orono and the Maine Central 
Institute at Pittsfield, Me. In 1877 he entered the law office of Hon. A. W. Paine at Bangor, 
where he chiefly acquired his legal education, and was admitted to the Penobscot bar in 18S0. 
He at once entered into the active practice of his profession, and the same year conductetl 
the defense in the well-known Meservey-Dunton trial, receiving especial notice from the press. 
While a student he had taken much interest in politics, making several campaign speeches. 
He became chairman nf the Republican town committee, and in 18S2, with Mr. Simonton, 



6i8 soMi:R\/i.i.i:, /'.IS/- .ix/> /'/a:siu\T. 

uhtaineil control of the ''Cainilcii Ilcrakl,'' of wliicli he «as assistant cilitor for three years. 
The same year he was appointed Postmaster by President Arthur, which office he held until 
near the expiration of his term of four years, when he resigned, after the inauguration of 
President (-'leveland. 'Die same year, 1S85, he moved to Hoston, since which time he has 
lieen engaged in the practice of law, in w hich he has heen very successful. He has hatl the 
settlement of several large estates. He came to Somerville in 18S6, but took no part in 
politics for several years, when he became a memi)er of the ward and city committee, and was 
elected a member of the Common Council from Ward i for the years 1893 and 1894, and 
was a member of the Board of Aldermen the following year. He has been treasurer of the 
Welicowit ('lub, a memlier and ex-president of the Owl Club, and past leader of Ilarvard 
Council Nil. 51, Home Circle. His residence is at 13 Franklin street. 

Robinson, Enoch, was born in Boston in 1801. At seven years of age he was 
L\t work with his fatlur, .nnd his early habits of industry, thus aci|uired, never deserted 
him. When he was a young man he engaged in business with his brothers in Boston, in the 
manufacture of ship trimmings and the ship-steering apj^aratus used fifty years ago. He 
subsequently went into the hardware business, making door-knobs and locks, and was located 
on Brattle street for many years. In 1847 ^^ moved from Boston to Somerville, locating on 
Spring Hill, which was then nothing but a pasture, and in 1856 he erected the celelirated 
"round house," which is illustrated in this volume. The house is perfectly circular in form, 
and is probably the only building of its kind used as a residence in this portion of the country. 
It is three stories high, the ujiper story being smaller in diameter than the two below it, 
leaving a balcony above the second story. The interior arrangements of the house are in 
keeping with its novel form. On one side of the front hall is the library, a circular room with 
one window. In its center is a small circular table, and in the walls are alcoves for books. 
On the other side of the hall is the parlor, oval in shape, lighted by two windows, and having 
an oval table in the center. The front hall leads to a circular entry-way in the center of the 
house, from which opens the dining-room and the kitchen. From the central entry-way of 
the first story a stairway leads to a similar entry in the second story, the stairs following the 
circular walls of the house. From the upper entry open live chambers, with radiating parti- 
tion walls. On the third floor is a circular balcony, which commands a view of the entries 
below, while above is a glass dome, which lights them all. Mr. Robinson was a charter 
member of the Fast (Cambridge Lodge of Odd Fellows, and John Abbot Lodge of Masons, of 
this city. He died in February, 1888. 

Rowell, Cromwell Gibbs, son of Aaron and Ruth (Itrown) Rowell, was born at Cor- 
inth, \'t., August 29, 1827. His education was obtained at the district school and at the 
academy at Framingham, Mass., to which town his parents had removed in his childhood. 
His first employment on leaving home was obtained on the sea, and he followed the calling 
nearly seven years; he then united with his father in the stove business at FraminghaTn. in 
1854 he entered the police force of the city of Boston, and remained a member thereof until 
the opening of the Civil War. He was instrumental in raising the Ninth Regiment, .Massa- 
chusetts X'olunteers, in which he was captain of Company I), and afterwards appointed 
lieutenant-colonel. .Subse<|ucntly he raised a company which was attached to the Thirtieth 
Regiment. At the close of the war he re-embarked in the stove business, in which he has 
remained, and he now occupies a position with the .Smith <.V Anthony Stove Comj^any. In 
1867 Col. Rowell was a member of the Legislature from Boston. 1 le came to Somerville in 
1869, was a member of the Common Council in 1873, of the Board of .Mdermen in iS74and 
1875, of the Water Board, of which he was president, in 1S77 and 1888, and has been presi- 
dent of the lioard of Registrars of Voters since 1886. He is a member of John Alibot Lodge, 
I'. .\. .\. .M., Somerville Chapter, R. A. M., Orient Council, R. and S. M., Cdur de Lion 
' ommandiTv, K. T., i-"\celsior Council, Roval Arcanum, and Mount Benedict Lodge, K. H. 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESEXT. 619 

Col. Rowell has been twice married : his first wife was Miss Harriet Maynard, daughter of 
Lawson and Nancy (Angell) Maynard of Framingham; and his second \\'ife was Miss Lottie 
A. Larkin, daughter of Henry and Annie Larkin, of Concord, N. H. They reside on I'earl 
street. 

Russell Irving L., was horn in Somerville, on the estate on which he now resides, 
Mav 24, lS;2, son of Levi and Martha (Smith) Russell. He was educated in the public 
schools of this citv, and in the Warren Academy of Woburn, and Eaton's Couunercial Col- 
lege of Boston. lie is a market gardener by occupation, cultivating about forty acres, his 
farm being the lar_gest plant of the kind in Somerville. Mr. Russell served two years, in 
1882 and 1883, in the Common Council; three years, 18S4, 1885 and 1886, in the ISoard of 
Aldermen, being president of that body in the last year of his service; was chairman of the 
committees on highways, and fuel and street lights. Pie was a memljer of the lL)Use of 
Representatives in 1888 and 1889, and was on the committees on labor, woman suffrage 
and water supplv. Mr. Russell married Miss Addie Johns, daughter of Cyrus and Margaret 
(Kelton) Johns of New York City. They reside at 1323 Broadway. 

Russ, George Herman, was liom in Belfast. Me., March 17, 1S63, the son of Captain 
James A. and Laura A. (Weymouth) Russ. and a direct descendant in the tenth generation 
of Henry Russ. who came from Hingham, England, and settled at Ilingham, Mass., about 
1633. He attended the public schools at Belfast, and came to Boston in 187S. He attended 
the Grammar and Latin Schools of Boston, and then went into the law office of Edwin C. 
Gilman. About a year afterward he l^egan the law course at Boston University, and was ad- 
mitted to the Suffolk bar in June, 1886. Shortly afterward he accepted a position as assist- 
ant attorney for the Lamson Store Service Co., which he retained for nearly three years. He 
then opened an office at 113 Devonshire street, Boston, and devoted himself to general prac- 
tice, and with gratifving results. Mr. Russ came to Somerville in iSSS. He married, in 
December, 1882, Miss Lilla E. Houghton of Boston; they have three sons, and reside at 28 
Montrose street. Mr. Russ served the city as a member of the Common Council in 1892 
and 1893. He is a member of the Central Club. Sons of Maine, Paul Revere Lodge, I. ( ). 
(). E., and other social organizations, and has been chief patriarch of Winter Hill Encamp- 
ment, and is a past master workman of Winter Hill Lodge, A. O. U. W. 

Rymes, Christopher E., was born in Portsmouth, N. H., Septeml)er 23, 1827. He 
came to Boston in March, 1844, to learn the machinist's trade, entering the employ of Tuttle 
& Dow. In 1850 he was employed as foreman in the machine shops of Hittenger, Cook i\: 
Co., and was admitted to the firm in 1855. In i86(> the firm name was changed to Cook, 
Rymes & e'o. This partnership continued until April. 1887, when it was dissolved, and all 
the partners retired from the business. In October, 1864, Mr. Rymes bought the estate on 
Summer street. Spring Hill, where he has since lived. He was a member of the original 
committee authorized by the town to contract with the city of Charlestown for the sujiply of 
water. He was a member of the first Water lioard, and for several years its president. In 
1889 he superintended the introduction of the high-water service in Somerville. He served 
in the first Common Council, and the following year in the Board of Aldermen. He has been 
a member of the board of trustees of the Public Library for years, and was also one of the 
trustees of the sniking fund. In 1875 he was elected to the Massachusetts Senate. Mr. 
Rymes is a life member of the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association, a member 
of John Abbot Lodge, Somerville Chapter, and Boston Commandery of Knights Templar. 
He was the first president of the Central Cluli, serving for five years. Mr. Rymes married 
Almira L., daughter of the late Dr. Josejih Cheever. 

Sanborn, Alexander A., was bom in Tuflonborough, N. H., February 13, 1833. He 
was educated in the schools of that town. Coming to Boston in 1849, he entered the ser- 
vice of the New England Steam and Gas Pipe Comj.any, 61 Charlestown street. About 



f)20 SOMllRl/LI.E, J'. 1ST .IXJ) J'JillSEXT. 

1S70 he cstnMishdl husiiiess fur himself in Su(il)ury street, and in iSSi locateil at i() and iS 
l'i)St-CHtice s<|uare, where lie is still engaged in the heating and ventilating business. On Oc- 
tober 10, 1856, he was married to Miss Abby II. Beedy of Thillips, Me. They have one son, 
( harles II. Sanborn, who is associated with his father in business. Mr. .Sanborn is a mem- 
ber of Somerville Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, Orient Council, Somervillc, and Co-ur de 
Lion Commandery of Charlestown. 

Sanborn, Caleb Leavitt, sun of JetTerson and Martha A. Sanburn, was born in Tuf- 
lunhoruugli. N. 11., January 12, 1843. He received his education in the schools of his native 
town, and in Meredith, N. H. At the age of eighteen he came to Boston and learned the 
steam-fitter's trade, and subsequently was with Fuller and Ford in Chicago as foreman two 
years. After returning to Boston, he accepted a ]iosition with Braman, Dow & Co., 3 and 4 
llaymarket sc|uare, which he still holds. He married Elizabeth A. Favor of Manchester, N. 
II., November 21, 1874; they moved to Somerville, February 21, 1875, ^^^ ^' present reside 
at 21 Willow avenue. They have one child, a daughter, and lost an infant son. Mr. San- 
born is a member of National Lodge, F. A. -V. .M., of Chicago, 111., the Howard Lodge, 
L O. O. F., of Charlestown, Mass., Brookline Lodge, K. of II., and several bcnelit organiza- 
tions. He comes of good old Puritan stock, being a direct descendant of John Sanborn, who 
was born in the hamlet of Sanborn, Warwickshire, Kng., and v>ho was among the earlier 
colonists who landed in this country about 1620, and settled in Flampton, N. H. 

Sanborn, Charles B., was born in New Hampshire, where his youth was passed and 
education obtained. He came to Boston in 1866, and engaged in the produce business, in 
which he still continues, having been located at 29 North Market street for nearly twenty 
years; he carries on a general commission business, making a specialty of the poultry trade. 
He was a member of the City Council in 1888 and 1889, and served on the Board of Alder- 
men in 1890, 1 89 1 and 1893. ^'■'- Sanborn came to Somerville early in the seventies, and 
lived in Ward i over twenty years, moving to his residence at 26 Adams street about two 
years ago. He is a member of the Fruit and Produce Exchange, and the Chamber of Com- 
merce, both of Boston, and a member of .Solcy Lodge, F. A. A. M., Somerville Chapter, R. 
A. M., and I >e Mola\ Conmiandery, K. T. 

Sanborn, Daniel W., General Superintendent of the Boston tV Maine Railroad System, 
is a native of Wakefield, Carroll County, N. II. He was educated in the public schools of 
his native town, and at Wakefield Academy. Upon leaving school he served an apprentice- 
ship at ship-building, and worked at the trade for several years. In May, 1859, he entered 
the service of the Portland, Saco X: Portsmouth Railroad Company, at Portsmouth, N. II. , 
where he remained until August, 1863. He was next employed as a brakeman on a passen- 
ger train, and, in 1864, was promoted to the i)osition of conductor, in v.hich capacity he 
acted until 1879. In the latter year he was appointed Master of Transportation of the Eastern 
Railroad, with headquarters in Boston, which position he filled until the Eastern was leased 
to the Boston \- Maine, when he was made Superintendent of the Eastern Division (the old 
Eastern Railroad), holding this office until July, 1890. Having ac(|uitted himself with great 
credit in this position, he was, in 1890, appointed Superintendent of the Southern Division 
(the old Boston tVi; Lowell), which had been leased by the Boston iV Maine. Soon after the 
death of James T. l-'urber, (ieneral Manager, the position of general superintendent of the 
system was created, and Mr. Sanborn, in February, 1892, was invited by the directors to 
accept it. Mr. Sanborn is a member of New Hampshire Lodge, I. O. O. F., and of Straw- 
berry Bank Encampment uf Portsmouth, N.IL, Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Somerville Royal 
.\rch Chapter, and Orient Council of Somerville; also is a member of De Molay Commandery 
of Knights Templar, Boston. In 1856 he was married to Miss Lucy Maria Lydston, of Eliot, 
Me., who, with a son, Fred E., and daughter, Mrs. J. M. French, constitute his family. Mr. 
Sanborn enjoys a wide acfiuaintance among railroad and business men throughout New 
England. 



S0MER17LLE, FAST AXD FRESEXT. 62 I 

Sanborn, David A., was born in Sandwich, N. H., February 14, 1795. 'he son of 
Robert an.l Mary ( nines Sanborn. He came to Roxbury when eighteen years of age, walk- 
ing the entire distance from Sandwich. He worked at farming a few years, then came to 
So^merville and carried on the milk business, and later was engaged in the manufacture of 
bricks on Prospect street, near the railroad bridge. He married Hannah Adams Stone, the 
daughter of John and Mary (Tufts) Stone, September 30, 1821, by whom he had five children. 
He built a house on Washington street, near Iniun s<|uare, about seventy years ago, where 
he lived and died. He held several town offices, and was in the War of 1S12. He died 

February 19, 1875. 

Sanborn, David A., was born April 21, 1828, the son of David A. and Hannah Adams 
(Stone) Sanl)orn, at the family residence on Washington street, SomerviUe (then Charles- 
town). His father came from Sandwich, N. H., at an early age, and, establishing himself in 
SomerviUe, was associated with the early growth of the town. David A., Jr., was educated 
in the public schools of SomerviUe, and has always lived very near the spot where he was 
born. At the age of sixteen he was apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade, which voca- 
tion he followed for many years, assisting in the building of many of the residences and 
public buildings of the city. In early life he was connected with the ol<l volunteer fire 
department, in the times of hand engines, and, later, was on the Board of Engineers, from 
1865 to 1872 being chief engineer. Mr. Sanburn is now president of the Veteran Fne- 
men's Association, and treasurer of the Firemen's Relief Fund. He served two years each 
in charge of the sewer department, as overseer of the poor, and as assessor. He was also 
elected^o the Common Council in 1876. Mr. Sanborn is a charter member of Oasis Lodge 
I. O. O. F., and SomerviUe Encampment, and has for many years been on the board of trustees 
of both organizations. He is also a member of Soley Dodge, F. A. A. M. His business now 
is in real estate, and in the care of property. 

Sanborn, Dr. Edwin A., the son of Aaron an.l Amanda M. (Currier) Sanborn, and 
grandson of Abraham Sanborn, was born August 28, 1849, at (hafton, N. H. His father 
died at the early age of twenty-six years, leaving him, then about two years of age, and his 
widowed mother, with rather limited resources. He was therefore early in life obliged to 
learn the lesson of self reliance. In accordance with his strong inchnations, he, when about 
fourteen years of age, determined to become a physician and surgeon, and spared no 
efforts to accomplish that result, and in this he succeeded by his own efforts without any 
financial assistance or favors from any one. After passing through the common schools, 
he attended a private school for several terms, after which he continued his studies under 
tutors, latterly with the special object of preparing himself thoroughly for the study of medi- 
cine. In 1872 he began the study of medicine at the McLean Asylum in SomerviUe, 
under the direction of Dr. F. A. StiUings. He subsequently pursued his studies at the 
Medical Department of Bowdoin College. Brunswick, Me., and also at the Dartmouth Medi- 
cal College, Hanover, N. H., and was graduated from Dartmouth, November 3, 1875, being 
awarded the first prize of twenty-five dollars for passing the best examination of the graduat- 
ing class in every department of study. In 1S76 he oflered a like prize to be awarded to 
the student who should pass a similar examination at that institution. Dr. Sanborn practiced 
medicine during the winter of 187S-1876 with his uncle Dr. D. M. Currier of Newport,N. H., 
and located in SomerviUe in the spring of 1876, where he has remained in the successful 
practice of his profession ever since. He is a member of the Middlesex South District 
Medical Society, the Massachusetts Medical Society, the American Medical Association, and 
the Alumni Association of Dartmouth Medical College. He is a medical examiner for the 
Berkshire Life Insurance Company and various other insurance organizations. He was 
married, June i, 1876, to Miss Harriet L. Ilosmer of SomerviUe, but a native of Weld, Me. 
He is not a club man, but is devoted to his profession and his home, delighting to spend his 




Frank S. Sanborn. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 623 

spare time or evenings in reading, or in social inlercourse witli his friends. His residence is 
at 24 P^anklin street. 

Sanborn, Frank S., was l)orn at Bristol, X. 11., August 28, i<S53, son of Sherburn S. 
and Xancv (Fellows) Sanborn. He was educated in the public schools of Bristol, and on 
leaving school he found employment in the Bristol Hosiery Mill, where he remained a short 
time and then entered the service of the Northern Railroad Company. In 1875 he came to 
Boston, where he was employed live years by Joseph Goodnow, a lumber dealer, and in 1880 
he returned to the railroad service, working for the New York c^ New England Railroad 
Company at Norwich, Conn. In 1S81 he found a position in the car department of the 
Pltchburg Railroad Company, was appointed foreman of freight work in 18S2. and foreman 
of freight and passenger work in 1883. In 1891 he was promoted to tlie position of gen- 
eral foreman and master wrecker of the Fitchburg Division of the road, which position he 
still holds. He married Miss Ella J. Swallow of Peterboro, N. II., in 1876, and their resi- 
dence is at 22 Bonner avenue. Mr. Sanborn is a member of Bunker Hill Lodge, I. (J. O. F.. 
of Charlestown, took Masonic degrees in Henry I'rice Lodge, Charlestown, was made a Red 
Man in Hiawatha Tribe, Medford, and is a member of l)e Soto Lodge, K. of \\, Bost..n,the 
Railroad Relief Society and the New England Railroad Club. 

Sanborn, James S., was bom in Wales, Me., March 29, 1S35, the son of Henry and 
Ann (Daly) Sanborn. His youth was spent in Wales, Monmouth and Nashua, N. H., and 
he received the education of the district schools of that time. In 1856 he married Harriet 
N. Small, daughter of Capfain John and Sarah (Moody) Small of Auburn, Me. They have 
four children; the two sons are connected with their father in business. He i)egan business 
by traveling and selling garden-seeds for A. II. Dunlap, Nashua, N. 11., and for several 
years he was a commercial traveler. His lust venture for himself was in Lewiston, Me., 
where he went into the coffee an,l spice business. In 1808 he became connected with 
Dwinell, Hayward & Co., of Bost.ai, an<l in 1S72 moved with his family to Somerville, 
where he has since resided, except for five years, 1 880-1 8S5, when he lived in Boston. The 
present firm of Chase c'^ Sanborn was formed in 1878. and the greatest success has at- 
tended them. Besides the coffee business, to which Mr. Sanborn has given his best effort, 
he has within a few years given much attention to the French Coach Horse, at his summer 
home, Poland. Me., where he has a large establishment. ^Ir. Sanborn has traveled exten- 
sively in the United States, Canada, West Indies, Central America, Mexico and the countries 
of the Mediterranean. He is pre-eminently a self-made man, and his energy and persever- 
ance have been largely the cause of the success that attends all his undertakings. 

Sanborn, William A., was born on Prospect street, the son of Joseph P. and Mercy 
K. Sanborn. May 9, 1852. He attended the Prescott, and afterwards the High School, from 
which he graduated in 1871, and tlien went to work at brickmaking for his father, for 
whom he worked two years, at the end of which time he went into business for himself. 
Two years later he took John W. Hatch into the concern, and for filteen years the firm 
was composed of these gentlemen. Mr. Sanborn now carries on alone the manufacture of 
brick his yards, which are extensive, being located on Mystic avenue and in Exeter, N. H. 
He has recently bought a large tract of land at Epping, N. H., which will also be opened 
for brickmaking. Mr. Sanborn married Gertrude \V. Braley of Charlestown, and they have 
two girls and a bov. He is a member of Soley Lodge of Masons, Paul Revere Lodge, and 
Somerville Encampment of Odd Fellows, Monument Council, Royal Arcanum, the Massachu- 
setts Builders' Association and other trade organizations. He is also one of the founders of 
the Winter Hill Universalist Church. 

Sargent, Aaron, was bom in Charlestown, October 29, 1S22, the son of Aaron and 
Sarah (Nichols) Sargent of that citv. His education was obtained in the public schools of 
Charlestown. He came to Somerville in 1846, residing in East Somerville until 1809, when 



624 SOMERlllJJ:. J'. 1ST .LVD /'A'AS/.'XT. 

he renu)Vf<l to Winter Hill. Ik- served on the school coiiunittee of the inww from 185S to 
1862, on tlie auditing committee from i86o to 1862 and from 1868 to 1S71, on the finance 
ctimmittee from 1868 to 1871, and on the water l)oard from 1858 to 1871. On the incorpo- 
ration of the city government, Mr. Sargent was elected city treasurer, and continued in the 
office by successive elections till 1881, when he resigned. lie served as a commissioner of 
the sinking fund from 1876 to 18SS. .Mr. Sargent married Miss S. Maria .Adams, daughter 
of Joseph and Phehe 1'. (Morse) .\dams of Somerville. She is a lineal descendant of John 
.\dams, the early miller of ('amhridge. They reside on Hroadway. 

Sawyer, Charles W., was horn in C'harlestown, Mass., February 28, 1S33. His 
early e<lucation was obtained in the Training Kield School and the (jrammar School in 
Charlestown; he then attendetl a private school, and finally took a course in a commercial 
college. In 1853 he was appointed a clerk in the Charlestown Post-Office, where he remained 
sixteen years, most of the time being assistant postmaster. In 1869 he resigned the position, 
and engaged in the auction and real estate business in tity scjuare, Charlestown, with an 
office also in Boston, doing a large business in Charlestown, Somerville and vicinity. In 
this business he has since continued. Mr. Sawyer took up his residence in Somerville in 
1873. In 1875 he was a member of the Lommon Council, and served in the Board of 
Aldermen in 1876. He was subseipiently chairman of the Board of Health for two years. 
He is a charter member of the following named Masonic bodies: Signet R. A. Chapter anil 
Cicur de Lion Commandery of Charlestown; Soley Lodge of Somerville and Somerville 
Council. He was for two years Em. commander- of C(i.*ur de Lion Commandery, in which 
he is now an honorary member. He is a member of Somerville R. A. Chapter. He was 
president of the Training Field School Association in Charlestown for two years, and was 
for many years the jiresident of the 999th Artillery Association of Charlestown, — a social 
club of 350 members, many of whom are residents of Somerville — and is a member of the 
Boston Real Estate Exchange. Mr. Sawyer has always taken great interest in the muni- 
cipal affairs of .Somerville, and is now one of the trustees of the Public Library. He married, 
in 1856, Miss Julia A. Heal, who died in .September, 1894. He resides on Main street, 
Winter Hill. 

Shattuck, Frederick W., was born upon a hillside farm in the little town of Reading, 
V't. His early life was a type of that of thousands of New England boys, who by their 
industry and perseverance have worked their way through school and college. During 
early boyhood he had the privilege of attending school one short term each winter and each 
summer. Later the spelling-book gave place to the scythe and hoe in summer. When 
seventeen he attended a fall term of school at Green Mountain Academy, .South Woodstock, 
Vt., and he taught his first school during the following winter. .A.bout this time he con- 
ceived the idea of fitting for college, and by teaching winters, working summers, and 
attending school during each fall and spring, he prepared for and entered Dartmouth 
College, graduating in the class of 1879. Since that time he has been engaged in teaching at 
W'indsor, Vt., Fitchburg, Lawrence, Manchester, N. II., and Winchester, and for the past 
fi\c years he has been the popular and efficient principal of the Luther \'. Bell .School. 

Simonds, Edwin N., son of N'athan and Elizabeth (Patch) .Simonds, was born in 
Burlingt(m, Mass., May i, 1850. His education was received in the Phillips School, Boston, 
and the Kimball Union Academy, Meriden, X. H. He has carrie<l on a successful business 
as a milk contractor since 1871, and has been a resident of Somerville since 1874. Mr. 
Simonds is a member of Soley Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Somerville Chapter, R. A. M., of 
Orient Council, and of Cnur de Lion Commandery, K. T., Charlestown. He is identified 
with Paul Revere Lodge Xo. 184, I. O. O. F., and is vice-president of the Winter Hill Club. 
On November 26, 1873, he married Miss Annie M. Simonds of Lexington, Mass., who dieil 
Xovember 23, 1874. On September 27, 1877, he married Miss Edith J. Hanchett of Xatick, 



SOMERllLLE, PAST A XI) /'A'A'SEAT. 625 

Mass. Mr. Simon. Is is a iiioclel husiiiess man ami a puMic-spirited cili/.t-n. No city can 
have too many men of his cliaracteristics. 

Smith, Dr. Frederick G., was burn in \Vilt<ui. \. H., Decemlier 12, 1867. He was 
educated in the |)ublic schools of his native town, and at Gushing Academy, Ashburnham, 
Mass. He practiced pharmacy in Boston three years, two of which were spent in the ^h\s- 
sachusetts College of Pharmacy. He entered the department of medicine and surgery in 
the University of Michigan in October, 1S90, graduating therefrom in June, 1893. During 
the six months immediately following he was house surgeon at the Methodist Episcopal Hos- 
pital at ( )maha, Xeb., and commenced the practice of Iiis profession in Somerville in January, 
1S94. ( (ctober 21, 1896, he was married t.i Miss Mabel Johnson, eldest daughter ofthe late 
Judge Edward F. Johnson of Marlborough, xMass. He resides at 49 Cross street. 

Souther, Ezra D., son of Emery and Hannah ( Lincoln) Souther, was born in Boston, 
October 11, 1847. Ht' attended the Mayhew School in that city, and on the completion of 
his education entered a commission house, where he remained six years; he then took a po- 
sition with the National Revere Bank of Boston, and has remained in it to the present time, 
a period of twenty-five years. Mr. Souther's first ancestor in this country came over in about 
1632, and was the first secretary of Plymouth Colony. The I.incolns of Ilingham were his 
ancestors on his mother's side, among whom was General El)enezer Lincoln; it is also claimed 
that Abraham Lincoln was one of the Ilingham family. Mr. Souther has lived in .Somer- 
ville for the last twenty-three years, and served the city in the Common Council in 1887 
and 18S8, and in the Board of Aldermen in 1889 and 1890. He was elected Overseer of 
the Poor to fill an unexpired term, in January, 1895; and in April, 1896, was re-elected for a 
full term of four years. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Winter Hill Lod<'e, 
K. H., Unity Council, Royal Arcanum, Boston ]5ank Officers' Association, and the Broatlway 
Congregational Society. He married Lydia True Preble of Boston, November 28, 1872, and 
they have two children, a son and a daughter. They reside at 14 Pembroke street. 

Southworth, Amasa E., was born in Stcuighton, Norfolk County, May 19, 1S44. He 
was the son of Amasa and Abigail (Sherman) Southworth, the latter now living at the age 
of ninety and in full ])ossession of all her faculties, while her mother lived to the advanced 
age of one hundred and two years. He received his education in the ungraded common 
schools of Stoughton, and at the age of sixteen moved to Boston, and entered the employ- 
ment of Dana, Farrar & Hyde, wholesale grocers. He remained with this house through its 
various changes, and is at present united with the junior partner of the house for whom he 
first worked, under the style of Hyde & Southworth, in the same store and same business. 
In 1866 he married .Abbie M., daughter of Charles and Lydia Dorman, of I<ockport, Mass., 
an.I moved to Somerville in September, 1 868. They have had six children, three at present 
living. He has always taken an active interest in social and political matters, being a char- 
ter member and past master of Soley Lodge of Masons. Always a Repul)lican, in i8<)4 he 
was elected to serve as representative to the ( leneral Court for 1895, a'"' "'as placed on the 
.■ommittees on banks and banking, and metropolitan affairs. In 1S95 he was re-elected, and 
was on the committees on libraries and metropolitan affairs for 1896. As a member of the 
latter committee, he took great interest in all matters affecting the interests of Somerville. 
particularly (he water bill and the bills for parks and boulevards. Believing that Somer- 
ville was unjustly assessed for these latter, he strongly a ivoe'ated the abolishment ofthe pres- 
ent assessment and the postponement of any assessment until the year lyoo, which bill was 
tinally passed. He looks with pride upon the rapid growth in wealth and population of the 
city, and always has a good word for the home of his adoption. 

Southworth, Gordon A., was born at Dorset. \t.. December 11, 1S38, the son of Gus- 
tavus W. and Caroline ( Aldeii) Southworth. His youth was passed in Chicago and Lowell, 
in the pulilic schools of which he was educated, (/hoosing the profession of teaching, he 





It 


1 ^WKK^tf 




^H^^^^l 



John P. Squirf^. 



SOMERVILLE. PAST AXD PRESENT. 627 

began his work at Tewksbury. His subseciuent experience has been three years at the Straf- 
ford (N. H.) High School; two years at the New Market (N. H.) High School; one year 
at Nahant; nine years at the Centre School, Maiden, whence he came in 1S73 to the prin- 
cipalship of the Prescott School, Somerville. After a service of twenty years in this position, 
he was unanimnusly elected, in 1S93, Superintendent of Public Schools, an ..fhce which he 
now holds. Mr. Southworth has been prominent in educational associations in the county 
and state. He is one of the founders and president of the d'eachers' Annuity Guild of 
Eastern Massachusetts. He is the co-author of a series of school textdjooks for language in- 
struction, which are widely used. He is also the author of a series of arithmetics, "Th'e Es- 
sentials of Arithmetic." He has also been identilied with Sunday-school work'all his life, 
having been for fourteen years the superintendent of the Sunday-school of the Franklin- 
street Church in this city. Mr. Southworth married, in 1876, Miss Elizabeth F. Pettes, 
daughter of Pforace and Abigail S. (Parks) Pettes of lioston. 

Sparrow, Edmund S., was bum in Orleans, Mass., ( )ctober 16, 1S46. He attended 
the village school until he was lifteen years of age, \n hen he went to sea, as the expression 
is, until he was twenty-one, at which period of his life he came to Boston and learned the 
building trade. After working at it three years he embarked in business for himself, as 
architect and builder, which calHng he conducted successfully for twenty years when he re- 
tired from the business. For the past ten years he has devoted most of his time to the man- 
agement of real estate. During the years 1S94 and 1895 he was a member of the Board of 
Aldermen, the last year being president of the board and chairman of several important 
committees. He belongs to various organizations, among which may be named the John 
Abbot Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Somerville R,.yal Arch Chapter, I )e Molay Commandery, 
K. T., Elm Council, R. A., and Caleb Rand Podge, L ().(). F. He is a director of the 
Sprague and Hathaway Co., and the West Somerville Co-operative Bank; is also one of the 
trustees of the Somerville Hospital and a member of the executive committee. He resides 
at 18 Meacham street. 

Squire, John P., son of Peter and Esther (Craig) Squire, was born in Weathersfield, 
Vt., May 8, 1S19. He came to ISoston in 1836, and worked for Nathan Robbins until he 
began business for himself in 1842, when he established the house of John P. Squire & Co. 
This business grew, during his lifetime, from one hog per day to over 4,000 hogs per day, 
and represented from ^15,000,000 to jii8,ooo,ooo per annum. Mr. S(|uire married Kate 
Green Orvis in 1843, by whom he had eleven children, nine of whom were living at the time 
of his death, January 7, 1893. 

Starbird, George M., is a native of Bowdoinham, Me., to which State his ancestors 
came nearly two hundred years ago. At the age of sixteen he came to Charlestown, where 
he became apprenticed at the carpenter trade. In 1S60 he estalilished himself in business 
as carpenter and builder, and since that time has done a large business with success. In 

1872 and 1873 he was a member of the Board of Aldermen of the city of Charlestown. In 

1873 he was nominated as a candidate for representative from Charlestown to the General 
Court, but decUned the nominath.n. In 1879 he was again nominated to the General 
Court, and was elected, and served on the connnittee on harbors and public lands. In 
1881 he moved to Somerville, where he was a member of the Common Council in 1887 and 
1888. He is a trustee and a memi)er of the investment committee of the Charlestown Five 
Cents Savings Bank, a director in the Mutual Protection Fire Insurance Company, a director 
in the Somerville Electric Light Company, and has been a trustee of the Somerville Hospital 
since its organization. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., and of the Royal 
Arcanum. He resides at 102 Pearl street. 

Stodder, Frederick Mortimer, was born in Cami)ridgeport, \'t., Fei)ruary 22, 1833. He 
attended the district schools in that town, and subsequently the academy at Saxton's River 




GffORGE M. Starbird. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 629 

and at Townshend, Vt. He came to Boston in 1850, and entered the employ of A. Whitney 
^V ('(!., 370 Commercial street, the members of the tirm being Alfred Whitney and A. !>. 
Gookin. Four years later he became a partner in the establishment, ihe new fiim name 
lieing that of (iookin & Stodder, and they have continued in the same location until the 
present time. Mr. Stodder came to Souiervillc in April. 1 87^5, purchasing his present home 
at II Grand \"iew avenue. lie has lieen a member of the Gity Government, having served 
the city as a member of the (Council in tJie years 18S2 and 1S83. lie is a member of the 
I'irst M. v.. (church, and is secretary of the board of trustees; he was also an active member 
of the old Ilanover-street Ghurch in lioston, and served it as treasurer for many years. He 
has two sons, both of whom reside in Boston, where they are engaged in business. 

Story, Isaac, was born at JMarblehead, Mass., November 4, 1S18, the son of Isaac and 
Sally Martin (Bowen) Story. He was educated at Lynn Academy and Tierce Academy, 
Middleborough, and continued his studies subsequently under private direction. In 1839, 
when twenty years of age, he became principal of the Franklin Academy, in Kutztown, Pa., 
and later the principal of the Bertie Union Academy, N. G. During this absence he studied 
law under the direction of Hon. Samuel II. Perkins, a leading member of the Philadelphia 

bar. Returning to Lynn, he stucHed law with Hon. Thomas B. Xewhall for a time, and 

again going South— taught in Maryland, for a year or more. Coming to Boston, where his 
parents then resided, in January, 1843, he entered the law office of Hon. Charles Theodore 
Russell, and subsequently that of Messrs. Fuller & Andrew, composed of Henry H. Fuller 
and John A. Andrew, — afterwards governor, — from which office he was admitted to the 
Suffolk bar in September, 1844, and then commenced practice on his own account. He 
was admitted to practice in the United .States Circuit and District Courts in May, 1845, ^"^1 
from that time, with the exception of one year's absence, practiced law in Boston until his 
appointment, May 31, 1S73, !)y Governor Washburn, as the standing justice of the Police 
Court of .Somerville. He took his seat on the bench at the organization of that court in the 
following June, and still holds the office. For several years he practiced in the same office 
with Governor Andrew, who was one of his groomsmen at his first marriage. He has been 
twice married : first, to Elizabeth Bowen Woodberry, daughter of Captain Jacob and Elizabeth 
(Bowen) Woodberry, of Beverly; second, to Mary Ann Chase, daughter of Hezekiah and 
Sally (Hoyt) Chase, of Lynn. He came to Somerville in May 1853, where, with the excep- 
tion of four years— from 1857 to 1861— he has ever since resided. In 1856 he was the 
representative of Somerville in the General Court, and during several years was a member 
of the School Committee of Somerville. His paternal grandfather, Dr. Elisha Story, a Boston 
boy, was one of those so-called " Indians " in the tea espisode in Boston Harbor on the eve of 
the War of the Revolution, and led the party who captured two brass field-pieces from the 
British sentry at what is now the Park-street entrance to Boston Common. His maternal 
grandfather, Nathan Bowen, was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and was orderly ser- 
geant in a Marblehead company stationed in that part of Charlestown now known as Winter 
Hill, in Somerville, to guard the Hessian troops taken at General Burgoyne's surrender. He 
afterward became heutenant, and at the close of the war returned to Marblehead, and upon 
the death of his father took his place as a magistrate, which he held until his death in 1837. 
His father, Isaac Story, Jr., commanded the Marblehead Light Infantry, attached to a batta- 
lion of artillery, in the War of 1812 with Great Britain. 

Sturtevant, George F., son of Josiah and Hannah Sturtevant, was born in Center 
Harbor, N. IL, in 1839. He was educated in the schools of his native town, and at the 
age of twenty came to Somerville, and entered the employ of Richard H. Sturtevant; sub- 
sequently the firm of Sturtevant Brothers, provision dealers, was established, and he was ad- 
mitted a member of the firm. In iSSi he withdrew from the partnership, and went to Brad- 
ford, 111., where he engaged in the vocation of shipping horses to the East, remaining there 







(J 

in 



SOMERIILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 63 I 

until 1893, when he returned to Somerville and estabhshed a business in hay, grain, etc., and 
continued in it until his death, which occurred in January, 1894. Mr. Sturtevant was mar- 
ried to Miss Harriet E. Dodge, by whom he had three children, two sons and a daughter. 
He served the city as a member uf the Water Board five years. He belonged to a number 
of the social organizations of Somerville, among which were [ohn Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., 
Knights of Honor, and Good Fellows. 

Sturtevant, Lindley J., was bom in lloldemess, \. H. At the age of twelve he 
came to .Somerville, where he was educated in the public schools. He embarkeil in the 
jirovision business in early life, and for the past twenty years has been in that line of trade in 
the Union Market, Boston. He is very genial in his disposition, and exceedingly popular 
among his acquaintances and friends. He is a member of a number of organizations, among 
which are the F. A.A. M., the I.O.O. F., Royal Arcanum, Pilgrim Fathers, and f loud Fel- 
lows. He resides on Columbus avenue. 

Sturtevant, Richard H., son of Eben I.. Sturtevant, was born in Centre Harbor. 
N. H., August I, 1S36. He was educated in the public schools of his native town, and came 
to Boston in 1S52. He commenced work for ( ;. A. <\; A. L. Sanborn, grocers, in Somerville, 
continuing with them seven years; he tlien opened Webster Market, near the corner of 
Washington and Prospect streets. From 1S62 to 1866 he was with Harrison, Birci iS: Co., 
becoming a member of the firm in the latter year. For five years from 1887 the firm was 
Sturtevant & Haley. On the death of Mr. Haley, in 1S92, the firm was incorporated as the 
Sturtevant & Haley Beef and Supply Company, of which Mr. Sturtevant is treasurer and 
manager. The slaughtering and rendering are done at Nos. 50 and 52 Somerville avenue. 
On June 13, 1867, he married Miss Martha M. Sanborn, daughter of Robert and Martha 
Sanborn. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge of Somerville, the Council of R. and S. 
Masters, and Cceur de Lion Commandery of Chariestown. He is also identified with the 
Royal Arcanum, Boston Chamber of Commerce, Fruit & Produce Exchange, the National 
Lancers, and is a director of the Fourth National Bank of Boston. He has lived in Somer- 
ville for a period of forty-four years, and his present residence is the handsome house at 31 
\\'alnut street. 

Tarbox, French 0. J., was born at Chariestown, September 2, 1861. He attended the 
primary and grammar schools of his native city, graduating from the latter in the class of 
1877. A. six months' course at the Boston Commercial College completed his school life, 
and, having a desire to travel, he made a two years' cruise on the bark Stillman B. Allen, 
visiting the antipodes at the age of sixteen. His return home was made from .San Francisco 
in the famous Cape Horn clipper ship "Young America," and he entered New \'ork Harb(u- 
in just twenty-three months after leaving it, having circumnavigated the globe at the age of 
eighteen, and traveled upwards of 52,000 miles. He remained on land a short time, and again 
went on a long voyage to the East Indies, etc., from which he returned home and then perma- 
nently abandoned a sea-faring life. Plis father having purchased a farm at Poland, Me., 
Mr. Tarbox joined him in tilling the soil ; but finding the life uncongenial to him at the end 
of two years, he returned to Chariestown. After devoting four years to the oil business, he 
entered the service of the Boston & Maine Railroad, working in various capacities, after 
which, having learned the trade of steam-fitting and piping with the Walworth Manufacturing 
Company, he took a position on the Fitchburg Railroad as steam-fitter, and remained in it for 
five years, when he again entered the employ of the Boston cV- Maine Railroad as air-brake 
fitter, and he continues in that position at the present time. Mr. Tarbox is a memlier of the 
Bunker Hill Lodge No. 14, I. O. O. F., and is master of Mt. Horelj Lodge No. 19, Loyal 
f )range Institution ; he is also a member of the Fitchburg R. R. Relief Association, and a 
member of the Common Council from Ward 2. Mr. Tarbox was married, September 12, 
1S90, to Sarah E. Magrath, a daughter of William Magrath, an old and well-known resident 
of Chariestown. They have one child and reside at 60 Oak street. 



6t,2 SO.l/A'A- 1 //././■:. /'.IS J- .LV/> /'AV-.'.VA.W. 

Taylor, Charles H., llu- sun dI' Jolm I. ami .\lii,:^ail Is. { I lapj^dod) Taylor, was born in 
Charkstown, July 14, US46. Ik- was eilucated in the- public scliuols of tliat city, and un 
leaving school he entered the composing-room of the " Boston Traveler '" and learned the 
l>rinter's trade, being then a lad of sixteen years of age In the spring of 1862 he laid down 
iiis composing-stick, and eidisled for service in the Civil War. Thus, a mere boy, he entered 
the Union Army, in which he served like a veteran until a bullet received in one of the i)at- 
lles iiefiire I'ort Hudson, in June, 1863, finished his army career, and almost ended his life. 
i\elurning to Iiostim, after his recovery from his wound, he became a re])orter on the 
" Traveltrr," and was appointed correspondent for the "New York '!"ril)unc." In i86y. 
(iovernor William Clallin appointed him as his private secretary, with the rank of colonel, 
and he remained in tliat position three years. In 1872 and 1875 lie was chosen representa- 
tive froni Somervilie to the General Court, and in the latter year was elected clerk of the 
Massachusetts House of Representatives. In .\]iril. 1S73, he became manager of the " ISoston 
Clobe," and he has remained in that jjusiiion until the present time, having by sturdy in- 
dustry and rare good judgment built up the paper to its present high position, and almost 
unrivaled prosperity. "Thus, while he was still under forty, the man who at twenty-three 
had fontlly dreamed of becoming a great editor found his full ambition realized. He was 
recognized not cmly as a great editor, liut as among the greatest of newspaper managers. 
The story of his commercial success is one of those fascinating romances of the sudden cre- 
ation of wealth, of which the United States in recent years has furnished so many." 

In 1891, Col. Taylor was appointed on Governor Russell's staff with the rank of gen- 
eral. During his long residence in Somervilie, General Taylor took a prominent part in re- 
ligious, educational and social matters, and held important positions in a number of the lead- 
ing organizations. In 1866 he married Georgianna O., daughter of (leorge W. and I.. F. 
Davis. His eldest son Charles H., Jr., together with two younger sons, are associated with 
him in the management of the "Globe." General Taylor is a past master of John Abbot 
Lodge, V. A. A. M., president of the Taylor and Algon<|uin Clubs of Boston, and is a mem- 
ber of a number of other leading organizations. 

Teele, Frank A., was born in Acton, Mass., in 1866, and is a grandson of the late J. W. 
Teele, for whom Teele square was named. He was educated in the grammar and high schools 
of Act(jn, the Lawrence Academy of Groton, and in Comers Commercial College in Boston. 
He was first employed by Winn, Ricker &Co., and C. K. Morrison & Co., Faneuil Hall Mar- 
ket, as bookkeeper; after two years' service with them he entered the employ of lohn P. 
Squired Co., on North Market street, as assistant cashier, and remained with that firm about 
one year, leaving it to assume the position of cashier of the Moses .'\. Dow estate ( Waverly 
House), and bookkeeper and advertising manager of the " Waverly Magazine " in Charles- 
town. He remained in that position six years, and on August I, 1895, ix)Ught the coal and wood 
business of the late Col. S. M. Fuller in Davis square, and at once established himself in that 
trade, adding to it a real estate and insurance Ijusiness; he was also appointeil a notary pub- 
lic by (iov. Greenhalge. Although inexperienced in his new business, he has, by the employ- 
ment of a great amount of energy, not only placed it on a good basis, but has very greatly 
increased it during the past year. He was married, in 1888, to Miss Mabel Richardson 
of South Acton, and has three daughters. He is a member of Elm Council, R. A., Caleb 
Rand Lodge, I. O. O. F., Clarendon Lodge, Pilgrim Fathers, and Provident Lodge, A. O. l'. 
W., having been recorder of the latter organization since its establishment. He is also as- 
sistant superintendent of the West Somervilie Baptist Sunday-school. He resides on the 
oKI Tcrle homestead on the corner of Broadway and Curtis street. 

Teele, Samuel, was born at the Waller Russell place on Broadway, November 18, 
1818, the son of Jonathan and Lydia (Hill) Teele. He attended the Russell District School 
of ( harlestown, and the NN'arren Academy in Woburn. He has been a farmer and gardener 






1M ^^'^v 




/% . 

J 




Samuel Teele, 





HliRBHRT TiK iRPE. 



SOMKRllLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 635 

all his life, on the homestead which he inherited from his father. In 1836 the well-known 
Teele house was built by his father at the head of Broadway, on Clarendon Hill. In 1864 
a portion of the farm was sold to Tufts College, and in 1868 Mr. Teele Ijuilt his present resi- 
dence on Curtis street, opposite the reservoir. Mr. Teele married Miss Phebe S. Libbey, 
daughter of James and Abigail (Goodwin) Libbey, of Ossipee, N. II. 

Thorpe, Herbert, was bom in Somerville, July 28, 1S52, the son of Jerome and Eliza 
(Howard) Thorpe. He attended the Brastow, Forster and High Schools, entering the lat- 
ter as a member of Mr. Baxter's first class. On leaving school he entered the employ of 
Shedd .V Sawyer, civil engineers of Boston, in which he remained two years; he then took 
a position with Charles I). Elliot, city engineer of Somerville, continuing in it one year. On 
leaving that office he established an express route, which he maintained until June 1, 1893, 
since which time he has been connected with the Railroad Electric Safety Appliance Com- 
pany as manager. It is a fact worthy of mention that he assisted in raising the tirst Hag that 
was raised on any schoolhouse m this city at the opening of the Civil War. He was married, 
in December, 1878, to Miss Mary A. Burnett of Somerville, and they have three children. 
Mr. Thorpe belongs to John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., Oasis Lodge, I. O. ( ). F., of which 
he is a past Noble Grand, the Somerville Encampment, I. ( ). O. F., and the Ivaloo Kebekah 
Lodge. 

Tufts, Nathan, was l)orn at the corner of Washington and Medford streets, January 
8, 1 81 8, in the little house still standing, and lived there with his father until he moved to 
East Somerville. The elder Tufts was a brickmaker, but his son learned the grain business 
of his father-in-law, Abraham Fitz, with whom he stayed until he started in business for him- 
self, when twenty-three years old, at Charlestown Neck. He worked hard, saved his money, 
took advantage of opportunities to make more, made investments, and was able to extend 
his business until he bought out a firm on Warren Bridge, and conducted the two places, one 
as a mill and the other as a storehouse and oHice, until his death. He became a rich man 
by his industry, honorable dealing, courtesy and wisdom. His worldly possessions were 
numerously scattered in real estate and a handsome personal property, all secured by no act 
redecting on his good name. He was never known to have oppressed the poor, but, on the 
other hand, had a generous purse for their aid. His fellow-citizens elected him in 1852 and 
1853 a member of the Board of Selectmen, his father having been one in the first years of 
the town. He was an Alderman the second year of the city's life, but tieclined further ser- 
vice in that branch, refusing the chief magistracy when prominent citizens importuned him 
to allow the use of his name. He was a Commissioner of the Sinking Fund from the passage 
of the act, and at the time of his death was chairman. He was a valued member of the 
Unitarian Church, a trustee of Warren Institution for Savings, and a director in the Bunker 
Hill Bank of Charlestown. He was also a member of the Central Club, and a fine member 
of the Somerville Light Infantry. For twenty years he lived on the corner of Summer and 
Central streets, this city, with his daughter and son Albert. Mr. Tufts was a man of sterling 
character. He was of a quiet, unobtrusive nature, yet a genial, earnest and loyal friend 
whenever and wherever he placed his friendship. He was very sensitive on a (luestion where 
principle came in, and none can point to an act of his whereby conscientiousness of duty and 
strictly honest dealing did not play the whole part. Mr. Tufts died October 20, 1887. 

Vinal, Robert Aldersey, was born in Boston, March 16, 1821. His father moved to 
Somerville, then a part of Charlestown, in 1824, and occupied for many years a house in- 
herited by his wife on the present site of Hotel Warren. Here the elder Robert \'inal re- 
sided until his death, and, like his son, enjoyed the highest esteem of his fellow-citizens. After 
attending school at a private academy at Lexington and at Charlestown Neck, Robert A. 
took charge of a grain mill in North Chelsea, owned by his father. Here the business ability 
was started that always marked his life. He marrie.l an estimable lady in North Chelsea, 



6.^6 soMENiii.i.i:. PAST Axn rRi:si:xr. 

and there some of the oUler cliildren were horn. Mr. X'inal's first business connection on 
his own account was with Mr. Ivdwin Munroe, formerly of this city, whose descendants now 
reside liere. 'I'hcy l<ept on ( 'ommercial Wharf until 1848. Mr. Vinal and his brother, (Juincy 
.\. Vinal, entered into business toj^ether, taking the old store of the father im Lewis Wharf. 
They kept together fifteen years, when Roi)ert A. retired. In 1849 he bought the lot at the 
corner of Walnut and .\ldersey streets, and built ihe house upon it which he occupied for 
thirty-six consccuiive years. Mr. \'inal led a vigorous and marked life. Tew men eipial 
liim in the trusts he fullilled. Me was identified with every good movement in town and city, 
cither in social, church, mas >nic, patriotic, fire, civic or otherwise. He was a great factm- 
in the problem of a<lvancemcnt of Somerville, old and new, and few enterprises, jirivate or 
public, succeeded w ithout his aid. He w as chief engineer of the I'ire Department, a member 
of the department, treasurer of the Charitable .Vssociation connected with it, an original 
member of the old Winnifimmet Lodge of Odd Fellows at Chelsea, to whicli lie belonged 
many years, a member of ( )asis Lodge, John Abbot Lodge and Somerville Chapter of Masons, 
deacon of the First Congregational Church, its treasurer, and at one time its efficient super- 
intendent, an orginal member of the old Boston Commercial Exchange, representative from 
this town two years during the war, an incorporator of the Somerville Savings 15ank and of 
the committee of investment, a member of the original Water Board, .Selectman for many 
years, and holding the position when the town was converted into a city in 1872, Town Treas- 
urer at one time, besides many smaller olTices of trust. .Mr. Vinal left a widow; three 
daughters, Louise, Mrs. \. T. Kidder, Alice; and two sons, Arthur and Charles. The father 
died in 1867, and his widow survived him but a few years. Ihey had, besides the eldest 
son, Robert A. who died .\pril 12, 1887, Alfred E., (^uincy \.. John W., Mrs. Lydia M. 
Runey, Miss Elizabeth, now residing in New Jersey, Mrs. Gen. W . L. ISuit, and Mrs. E. A. 
Wilder. A son and two daughters died some time since. 

Vincent, George I., was born in Somerville, July 6, 1851. In 1854 his parents re- 
moved to Bangor, Me., where he received a common school education, supplemented by a 
course in a business college. He returned to Somerville with his parents in 1867, his father 
purchasing the estate now numbered 32 on Cherry street, where the family has since re- 
sided. He obtained employment, as office boy. with an importing dress-goods house in 
Boston, in the summer of 1867, and about a year later was promoted to the position of entry- 
clerk, remaining until 1S74. In March, 1874, he was ai)pointed by Mayor l'"urber as clerk 
at the call of the mayor, and was assigned to duty as clerk for the Board of .Assessors, be- 
ginning his service on the first day of April. To this duty were soon added those of clerk 
of the committee on claims and clerk of the committee on sewers, and some time later he 
was chosen clerk of the committee on public property and of the committee on ordinances, 
and in 1878, when the first Board of Health, apart from the City Council, was established, 
he was made the clerk of that board. In 1882 an ordinance was adopted creating the office 
of clerk of assessors and committees, and Mr. Vincent was made the first incumbent of the 
office, with an assistant; the duties comprising those of clerk of the Board of Assessors and 
of all committees, and also of the Boarti of Health, the Superintendent of Streets, and the 
Chief Engineer of the Fire Department. February 28, 18S8, he was unaninH)Usly elected to 
succeed the veteran city clerk, Charles E. (iilman, who had died on the 22d inst., and he has 
received unanimous re-elections in each succeeding year. He has held various offices of 
trust and responsibility, including those of treasurer of the Someiville Musical Association, 
treasurer of .St. James Church, North Cambridge, and superintendent of the Sunday-school 
and a member of the corporation and vestry of Emmanuel Church, Somerville. He was 
the first secretary of the Somerville Co-operative Bank, and is at the present time treasurer 
of the City Clerks" Association of Massachusetts. He was a member of the .Sons of Temper- 
ance and the flood Templars for many years, and has continued the ])ractice of total abstin- 




Herbert L. Clark. 




RuFUS R. Wade. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST AXD PRESENT. 639 

ence on the grounds both of principle and expediency. He is a past grand of Oasis Lodge 
of Odd Fellows, and a member of Ivaloo Lodge, Daughters of Rebekah, Somerville Council 
of the Royal Arcanum, and Washington Council of the Home Circle, and a contributing 
member of Willard C. Kinsley Post No. 139, G. A. K. Was married, November 26, 1872,10 
Miss Sophia Elizabeth Edwards, of Allston, and has four daughters. 

Wade, Rufus R., one of the most retiring and yet one of the best known men of 
Somerville is the gentleman \\hose name heads this sketcli. Bust'jn born, he hatl much the 
same boyhood that tlie youth of the city had, and we lind him in early manhood an ollicer 
in the Massachusetts State Prison. He remained here until the Middlesex County officials 
wanted him for turnkey at the East Cambridge Jail and House of Correction, and he served 
many years under the able administration of the late Capt. Charles J. Adams. Mr. Wade 
left this position to be the first special aLjent on depredations in New England for the Post- 
Oftice Department, and was made chief of the service in New England. In 1879 "Honest 
Tom 'I'albot," then governor, appointed Chief Wade to be the head of the Massachusetts Dis- 
trict Police, which force then consisted of two men and had direct charge of the enforcement 
of two laws. It would be almost next to an impossibility to recapitulate the work of Chief 
Wade during the almost twenty years he has held his important place of trust. Taking the 
oftice in its utter meagreness, he has been obliged to originate plans for the successful ad- 
ministration of his departments. Work of various kinds has been heaped upon him until 
now it can be said he has four distinct departments, the criminal, labor, inspection of boilers 
and the licensing of engineers and firemen, and the inspection of factories, public buildings, 
etc., and the plans of the same. The force now consists of forty-five men, with seventy 
specific laws to be guarded and their strict enforcement seen to. Chief Wade is a recognized 
authority throughout the world on factory inspection in its various phases, and has held for 
a long time the presidency of the International Association of Factory Inspectors. He has 
time, however, to devote to outside matters, as evincetl by his having held the presidency of 
the Cambridge Co-operative Bank since its formation seventeen years ago, the third to be 
organized in the State, and now one of the leading banks of its kind. He was at one time 
an active politician, and was the founder of the renowned Middlesex Club. He is also a 
prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, being high in the order. Chief Wade came 
to Somerville twelve years ago, moving from Cami)ridge, and built the first house on the 
heights at the left of the Powder House. He married Mary A., daughter of Jacob and Mary 
Marsh of Hingham. She passed away March 27, 1894. Chief Wade is very proud of his 
connection with the Third Universalist Church, of which he is one of the founders and best 
friends. 

Wadleigh, William Y., was liom at Sunapee, N. IL, November 10, 1S54. I lis early 
vears were passed in Newport, N. IL, but at the age of fourteen, on the death of his father, 
he was oliliged to go to work to help support the family. His first experience as a wage- 
earner was in farming, but being ambitious for a broader field of usefulness and improve- 
ment he left the farm after a year's service and went to Milford, N. IL, in 1S69, where he at- 
tended the public school a year and then went into a bank, where he remained until he came 
to Boston in 1876 to accept a position with the wholesale grocery house of Wadleigh, An- 
drews eS; Co. He has Ijeen associated with the wholesale grocery trade for twenty years, 
and has been a partner in the firm of John A. Andrews & Co. for thirteen years. This 
house has the reputation of being one of the largest and most honorable in the State, and 
Mr. Wadleigh is well known to the trade as one of its most active members. Mr. Wadleigh 
has lived on Highland avenue nearly twenty years : he takes a great interest in all public 
matters pertaining to the welfare of the city, but has always declined office of any kind. He 
has one of the pleasantest homes in the city, and being of rather domestic tastes, prefers it 
to social and club life. 




Benjamin F. Freeman. 



. SOMERl'/LLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 64 1 

Wadsworth, George M., was born in South Weymouth, April 4, 1S57. He attended 
the puhHc schools of rawtucket, K. I., and Fall River, Mass., graduating from the high 
school of the latter city in 1874. After working several years, he entered the Holliston 
High School to prepare himself for college, and was admitted to Colby University in the fall 
of 1879. At the close of his sophomore year, he was offered the grammar school in Hollis- 
ton, which position he accepted. Then, instead of returning to Colby to complete his col- 
lege course, he spent the last two years of his college life at Brown University, from which 
he graduated in 1884. He became principal of the Renfrew School, of Adams, Mass., in the 
fall of i!>84, which position he held until ()ctoher. 1S86, when he resigned to become prin- 
cipal of the Washington School, Quincy, Mass. Four monllis later he was transferreil to the 
Williard School, West Quincy. This position was held until May, 1890, when he accepted 
the superintendency of the schools of the Bedford District. Upon the opening of the Charles 
G. Pope School of Somerville, he iiecame its principal, which position he still holds. While 
superintendent of the Bedford District he was president of the Town and District Superin- 
tendents' Association; and at present he is financial secretary of the Teachers' Annuity 
Guild, an association organized three years ago, and which now embraces twenty-nine cities 
and towns in Eastern Massachusetts, with a membership of nearly 1300, of whom 112 teacli 
in Somerville, and has a fund of over ^40,000. He is also president of the Middlesex 
County Teachers' Association. 

Ware, Frank A., son of Preston J. and Lavinia (Lilly) Ware, was born in Baltimore. 
Md., April 12, 1850. He was educated in the public schools of Newton, Mass., entered the 
shoe business in his nineteenth year, and has continued in that business until the present 
time, Iieing now a memlier of the firm of Ware & Lincoln, shoe manufacturers, at Brockton, 
Mass. He came to Somerville in 1879, and has resided here since that year. He was 
married in 1880 to Carrie H. Langmaid, and they have four children, three sons and a 
daughter. Mr. Ware is not a so-called club-man, but is widely known in social and busi- 
ness circles. He resides at 54 Dartmouth street. 

Weld, William E., was born in Somerville, in January, 1S52. He was educated in 
the public schools of the city, and graduated from the high school in June, 1869. He was 
a member of the city government four years, having served two years m the Common Coun- 
cil, and two in the Board of i\ldermen. He was on the Board of Trustees of the Somerville 
Public Library for nine years, was for three years treasurer of the Central Club, and has been 
quite active in municipal politics, having been secretary and subsequently president of the 
r)emocratic City Committee. He was {ox ten years in the hoot and shoe business in Boston, 
but is now engaged in the wholesale wine and li(]uor trade in that city. Fie resides at 166 
Summer St. 

Wellington, J. Frank, was bom in Lexington, Xovember 20, 1849, the son of Horatio 
and Mary Bowman (Teele) Wellington. The Wellington famdy has been settled in Water- 
town and Lexington for two centuries, and was active in the early settlement of that region. 
Moving to Charlestown, Mass., with his parents in his infancy, he was educated in the 
schools of that city, graduating from the high school in 1S67. He began his business career 
in the upholstery goods trade in Boston, in which he spent five years. He then became as- 
sociated with his father in the coal business, and in 18S4 ^ partnership was formed under 
the firm name of Horatio Wellington lV Co., and upon the death of his father, in 1894, he 
became senior member, continuing the business under the same firm name. \\\ 1875 he 
moved to Somerville, and has always taken an active interest in the affairs of the city. In 
1881 he served as a member of the Common Council, and in 1882 and 1S83 was a member 
of the Board of Aldermen. He was chosen a member of the First Board of Registrars of 
Voters, and served for the years 1885 and 1886. In 1887 he was elected a member of the 
Board of Health, serving for five years, four of which he was chairman. 



642 SOMl-.KlIl.I.i:, J'AST Axn rRESEXr. 

Mr. Wellinj^'ton is now a mcmher of tlic IJuard uf 'I'rustecs of the Somerville I'ulilic 
Library, liavinj; l)ccn elected tu that position in 189^^. He is president of the Somerville 
I'o-operative Hank, a director of the Somerville National Bank, and a trustee of the Charles- 
town Kive-Cents Savin<;s Bank. 1 le is a member of Soley Lodge F. A. A. M., of Unity Coun- 
cil R. A., and Howard l,odge 1. ().(). L. of Charlestown, and is vice-president of the Central 
( lub of Somerville. He is also a member of the Hoard of Trustees of the Somerville Hos- 
pital, also of Tufis College and of the Woodlawn Cemetery. Mr. Wellington married 
Charlotte A., daughter of Ltlwin and Sarah A. (Cutter) Hunnewell of Charlestown. 

Wendell, Mina J., was born in Woliurn, Mass., 1-ebruary, 20, 1S53. She was edu- 
cated in the \Vol)urn i)ublic schools, graduating from the high school in June, 1872. In 
September after she was graduated she began tn train for teaching, and in the following 
spring her ability was tested in one of Woburn's hardest schools. Upon the coni])letion of 
the new Cummings grammarsclun)l building in her native city, she was honored by an ap- 
l)ointment to teach in it, and was promoted from year to year, until she became principal of 
the ( enlral Grammar School. In June, 18S2, much to the regret of the Wol)urn puljlic, she 
accepted a position as master's assistant in the Morse .School in Somerville. During the 
changes which subse(|uently occurred among the principals, Miss Wendell had entire charge 
of the school, and so efficiently did she till the position, that the citizens of .Spring Hill sent 
tw.i petitions to the .School Committee, asking that she become the permanent princi])al of 
the Morse School. She was finally elected to the i)osition, one which was for the lirsl 
time in Somerville given to a woman, and she has in the service thus far rendered proved 
her complete qualification for the situation. Unusual executive ability, rare tact, (juickness 
to adapt modern methods of pul>lic school teaching to the needs of her school, have marked 
a success which shows that the confidence in her powers was not misplaced. Her winning 
personality and unusual power as a disciplinarian easily make her master of the most com- 
])licated and trying situations, and the force of her character and her personal interest in 
liie welfare of each pupil have left a lasting impression on the graduates of the Morse 
Sch<)ol. Miss Wendell is the daughter of a veteran soldier, her father having served in the 
( ivil War in Company K, Tenth N. H. \ olunteers. She is a member of the Teachers' .\n- 
nuity (Juild, a member of the Current Events Committee i)f the Heplorean Club, and a 
member of the Initarian Church, Highland avenue. 

Wentworth, Thomas S., was born in Acton, Me., in 1846. He resided in that town 
until he was sixteen years old. when he went out into the world for himself. In the Civil War 
he responded to the call for volunteers, and served in the army from 1862 to 1865. He was 
a member of the 13th New Hampshire Regiment, was wounded May 16, 1864, at the battle 
of Drury's Bluff, and again September 28, at Chapin's Farm. I le served in the 9th, i8th, and 
24th Army Corps, was before Petersburg in the summer of 1864, and participated in all the 
battles of the regiment except when wounded. .Vt the fall of Richmond, on the morning ol 
April 3, 1865, he entered the city, being a member of Cen. Charles Devens's division of the 
24th Army Corps. Seventeen years ago (1878) the firm of Downs & Wentworth was estab- 
lished, and it has been built up by the efforts of the partners to its present prospertms status. 
They are located at 40 and 42 Merchants Row, Boston. Mr. Wentworth served our city 
two years in the Common Council, but declined an election to the Board of Aldermen. In 
1894, 1895 ^"<^l '896. he was a member of the School Committee. In the great semi-centen- 
nial celebration in 1892, he organized the parade and took command of one of the largest 
processions, military and civic, ever formed in this State outside the city of Boston. In recog- 
nition of his valuable services on that occasion he received from the City Government a gold 
medal. Mr. Wentworth has always taken an active interest in the Boston Fruit and Produce 
I'.xchange, an organization of upwards of five hundred members, served two years as a direc- 
tor, and in 1896 was elected president of the association. He resides at 350 Broadway. 




Thomas B. Blaikie. 




ClIARLL'S A. DOLl^. 



SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 645 

Whitcomb, Charles T. C, son of John Ciray and Mary Jane (F'ountain) Whitcomb, 
was born in 'rimniaston. Me., July I, 1S61. His father was engaged in shipbuilding and re- 
moved to r.ost(.)n in 1863, and later t<i Provincetown, Mass., where the suliject of this sketch 
passed his boyhooil and received his early education, graduating from the classical de- 
partment of the high school of that place, luitering Amherst College in 1879, he received 
the degree of A. 1!., with honor in 18S3, from that institution, ami three years later, for 
special work in Knglish, the degree of A. M. Soon after graduation Mr. Whitcomb accepted 
a position at the head of the Sandwich Grammar School, and a few months later he was 
placed in charge of the High School of that town. After four years' successful experience in 
that position he was elected principal of the Wakefield High School in 1888, where he re- 
mained for a period of seven years, although during that time opportunities to take other 
positions were offered. He has always identified himself with the social, religious and busi- 
ness interests of the community, being highly esteemed Ijy his fellow-townsmen. Mr. 
Whitcomb was the first president of the Barnstable County Teachers' Association. He has 
been twice president of the Middlesex County Teachers' Association and president of the 
Massachusetts High-School Masters' Club. He is also a memlier of the Massachusetts 
Schoolmasters' Club. He is a member of Joseph Warren Royal Arch Chapter of Province- 
town, and past master of De Witt Clinton Lodge, A. V. and A. M. of Sandwich, and a mem- 
ber of Excelsior Council No. 3, Royal Arcanum, East Somerville. ( )n April 29, 1895, he 
was elected head master of the English High School, Somerville, and at once began the task 
of its organization. The school was opened in September, 1895, ^""^ under his management 
it has already attained standing in the front rank of the high schools of the State. In 1889, 
Mr. Whitcomb married Miss Charlotte Chapouile Waterman of Sandwich. Their children 
are Rachel Gray, born June 3, 1891, and John Leonard, born Septeml)er 4, 1894. Mr. 
Whitcomb resides at 12 Highland avenue. 

White, Dr. Emory L., son of Jason and Betsy (Lincoln) White, was born at Provi- 
dence, R. I., May 15, 1S48. His early days were chiefly passed in Norton and Taunton in 
this State; he was educated at a private school in Norton, where he was fitted for the aca- 
demic course. He entered the Harvard Medical School in 1868, graduated in 1872, and, 
coming immediately to Somerville, established himself as a practitioner, and has remained 
here ever since. He is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, the American 
Medical Association, the .Somerville and Cambridge Medical Societies, and the Harvard 
Medical Alumni Association. He has been Supreme Medical Examiner of the United Order 
of the Pilgrim Eathers for the last thirteen years; is medical examiner for the Metropolitan 
Life Insurance Company of New York, and for the New York Life Insurance Company 
and has been the city physician of Somerville, and a member of the Board of Health. He 
is a member of John Abbot Lodge, E. A. A. M., the Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, and 
the Orient Council of Royal and Select Masters. He married Miss Clara E. Grieves of Cam- 
bridge, liy whom he has had one son. They reside at 30 Bow street. 

White, Dr. Horace Carr, son of Gideon and Rhoda (Springer) White, was born in 
Bowdoin, Me., January 26, 1836. His great-grandfather was one of the first settlers of 
Bath, Me. The house which he built of hewed timber walls with port-holes for defence 
against the Indians, stood until about a quarter of a century ago. This ancestor came from 
Essex, Mass., and is said to be a descendant of Peregrine White. iJr. White was educated 
at the Litchfield Liberal Institute, and graduated from the medical department of Bowdoin 
College in 1859. At the age of seventeen, he was compelled to leave school temporarily on 
account of trouble with his eyes, and devoted about three years to business occupations in 
Gardiner, Me., and Boston, devoting his leisure time in the latter place to attendance upon 
Lowell Institute and other lectures. Returning to school in 1855, from that date to i860, 
when he settled in Lisbon Falls, Me., as a physician, he was engaged in leaching about one 



646 S(KM/:ki7/j./:. jwst .lvp j'A'/:s/:\j'. 

third of tlie time. In March, iS()i, he entered the Union Army as assistant surgeon of the 
1-jghth Maine Regiment. In [uly, 1863, he returned to Lisbon I-"alls, liroken down in 
health. Remaining there until ( )ctoher, 1S74, he removed to .Somerville, where he has en- 
joyed a large practice. The doctor has been influential in educational matters for many 
vears. At Lisbon he was supervisor of schools for four years, and he has !>een a member of 
the School Hoard of Somerville for twelve years. In Lisbon he served as selectman, over- 
seer of the poor and assessor for three years, and postmaster of the town from 1869 to 1874. 
lie has been a trustee of the Somerville Hospital since its organization, and a member of the 
medical board and of the medical and surgical staff. He is a member and ex-president yf 
the Hoston dynxcological Society and of the Somerville Metlical .St)ciety. He is a fellow of 
the Massachusetts Medical .Vssociation, member of the Maine Medical .\ssociation, and of 
the American .Medical Association, and was a member of the Ninth International Medical 
("ongress. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., De Molay Commandery, Knights 
Templar, and of Orient Council. He is connected with the Loyal Legion, Clrand Army of 
the Republic, is ex-president of Sons of Maine of Somerville, and a member of the Mystic 
X'alley and other clubs. In politics Dr. White is a steadfast Republican, and as such was 
elected to the General Court in 1S96. He was married, June 4, 1S60, to Miss Mary Lithgow 
Randall daughter of Ca])t. I'aul and Xancy Randall of Harpswell. Me. Their children are 
Lucy Frances, liessie Randall, and William Horace White. 

Whiting, Dr. George W. W., was born in Carmel, Me., May 4, 1S64, the son of Rev. 
.■\sa and Nancv A. 1 Whitney 1 Whiting. His early education was obtained in the home dis- 
trict schools, but at the age of fifteen he went to Washington, 1 >. C, where he took a special 
course at Spencer's Business College. Later, he entered the Maine Central Institute at 
I'ittsfield, where he prepared for college, entering Bowdoin College as a student in the 
medical department. He finished his studies in the University of the city of New York, 
where he was graduated from the medical department in 1SS7. He practiced medicine in 
Orland, Me., four years, and came to Somerville in June, 1S91, where he has been engaged 
in his profession steadily until the present time. He was married Octol)er 16, 1895. ^'^ ^''^^ 
Alice Maude Iloyt, and they reside at 2S2 Broadway. Dr. Whiting is a member of the 
.Massachusetts Medical Society, is examining physician for several insurance companies, 
and one of the visiting physicians of the Somerville Hospital. He was elected a member of 
the School Boartl in 1896 for a term of three years, is a member of the Rising Sun Lodge, 
F. .V. A. M., of Orland, Me., the Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, and the Orient Council. 
He is not a club man, liut is <leeply interested in his profession and enthusiastic in its 
practice. 

Wild, Benjamin F., was i)orn in Somerville, ( )ctober 8, 1853. 1 le was the son of Charles 
D. and .Mniiia W. ( Baldwin) Wild, who located in Somerville in 1843, ^"*^ ^^''^^ '^^ '"'^' '^' 
run a spring wagon in Boston. He was educated in the public schools, graduating from tlie 
I'rescott. He sulisequently attended a Boston commercial college. After comj^lete training 
in the wholesale trade, he engaged in the wood and coal business, and, in 1877, ojiened a 
yard at Charlestown Neck. With the enlargement of his business he located, in 18S4, at 
the capacious w harves on the Mystic River, where he still continues. .Mr. Wild is a member 
of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Somerville R. A. Chapter, Cnur de Lion Commandery, K.T.. 
and is a charter member of Somerville Council, R. and S. M. He is a member of I'aul 
Revere Lodge, I. f ). O. 1"., the Central and Webcowit Clubs; also of the Exchange Club, 
Boston, the 999th .Vrtillery, and Charlestown Club, of Charlestown. He married Miss Amy 
I'. Faulkner, daughter of I.. W. and Martha 1 Merriam) Faulkner, of Billerica. They reside 
on Scho(jl street. Winter Hill. 

Wiley, Isaiah H., comes of sturdy Cape Cod stock, such as has contributed so materi- 
ally to make the wealth and renown of Boston and the Ccminionwi-altli. He was born in 




Isaiah H. Wiley 




G. Franklin Wilkins. 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 649 

Truro, Mass., December 5, 1S52. the son of Freeman A. and Mary ('. (Harding) Wiley. 
When he was very young hi> parents removed to Wellfieet, ami there Mr. Wiley was reared 
and educated, going to the village school steadily until he was eleven years of age, after which 
he attended it onlv in the winter months until he was sixteen years old. During the remaining 
months of the year he worked in his father's store, thougli, like many other Cape Cod boys, 
he followed the sea for the most of the time in the summer months between the ages of 
twelve and eighteen. In 1S70 Mr. Wiley came to I'.oston and entered the employ of Wads- 
worth & Ilowland, and remained in that jiosition six years. He then went into iiusiness on 
his own account, first in the copartnership of White iV Wiley, they prnxdiasing the business 
of Crowell Bros. & Co. Subseciucntly the firm was changed to White, Wiley cv Co., the new 
partner being B. J. Richardson. Sometime thereafter Mr. Wiley and Mr. Richardson 
bought out Mr. White's interest, when the Hrni name was changed to Wiley eV Richardson- 
In March, 1S8S, Mr. Richardson retired, since which time Mr. Wiley has conducted the 
business alone, under the fum style of I. II. Wiley c\: Co. He does a large and successful 
wholesale business in a general line of paints, oils, varnishes, and painters' supplies, having a 
large store on Sudbury street, and a well-equipped factory on Portland street. Mr. Wiley 
came to Somerville in 1878, and served the city in the Common Councils of 1S91 and 1892, 
being President of the Council in 1892. He is a member of Soley Lodge, P". A. A. M., 
Somerville Chapter K. A., De Molay Commandery, K. T., Wonohaquaham Tribe, I. O. R. M., 
Excelsior Chapter, R. A., Webcowit Club, the Paint lV ( )il Club of New England (of which 
club he is now president), and a number of other organizations in different portions of the 
State. He married Miss Mary C. Porter, daughter of James F. and Mary C. (Parker) 
Porter, and their residence is at 54 Mt. Vernon street. 

Wilkins, G. Franklin, was born in Boston, January 4, 1857. He lived in that city 
until fourteen years of age, with the exception of one year, 1863, which was spent in Somer- 
ville, where he attended the Prospect Hill School. In 1S71 he located in Somerville ]ierma- 
nently, and has resided in Ward 3 since that year. He completed his education in the 
Somerville High School, graduating in the class of 1875. "^I'"- Wilkins, soon after leaving 
school, went into business, and is now a member of the firm of F. Wilkins & Son, forwarders 
for the Boston & Maine Railroad, Southern Divisit)n, one of the oldest trucking firms in 
I'.oston. He was an active member of the Republican Ward and City Committee for several 
years, and its secretary for one year. Mr. Wilkins is a member of the Winter Hill Lodge, 
A. O. U. W., and of the Central Club. He served the city two years in the Common Council. 
His residence is at 98 Central street. 

Willey, Clarence H., son of Rufus W. and Lydia 0. (Hoyt) Willey, was born in 
Concord, N. H., January 17, 1858, and came to this city wdien nine years of age, living, until 
1891, on Flint street, when the family moved to a new and beautiful home at 26 Dartmouth 
street, then being developed. He was educated in the Prescott and High Schools, leaving, 
after two years, to attend a commercial college. He worked for Moulton & Bradley from 
1879 to 1883, and then went with his father, who had succeeded General Alfred Hoyt, 
an ancestor, and the pioneer shipper of baled hay to Boston, thirty-five years ago. The 
father and son have conducted a very successful hay and grain business, and, in addition to 
their Beverly street store, have a large place at Beverly Farms, where they ply a substantial 
private stable trade. Mr. Willey was elected to the Common Council in 1889 and 1890, and 
an Alderman from Ward i in 1891, declining re-election the following year by reason of his 
removal to Ward 3. He is a member of Soley Lodge, past high priest of Somerville Royal 
Arch Chapter, a member of Orient Council, Cceur de Lion Commandery, Excelsior Council, 
Central Clul), the A. O. U. W., and the Boston Chamber of Commerce. In 1884 he married 
Miss Mary Appleton, a daughter of John C. and Mary J. Appleton, now both deceased, but 
who had lived manv vears in Somerville. 



650 SOMr.RlJI.LK, J'. 1ST .l.\7) /'A'A.VA.W. 

Willis, Dr. Reuben, was l).)rn at Belchcrtuun, Mass., in 1S42. and was lltted fur cul- 
kgc in the Milford llij^h School, lie dmiiped his studies at the Ijreakiiig out of the Rebel- 
lion, and enlisted in 1861 in the Twenty-lifth Regiment Massachusetts \olunteers, which 
joined the Burnsitie expeilition to North Carolina. He served two and one-half years in the 
war, durinj; which he took part in several battles, amonji; which were those of Roanoke Is- 
land and Xewberne, N. C". He was slightly wounded at Newberne, and was honorably dis- 
charged, on account of physical disability, in Decemijer, 1863. He subsequently resumed 
his studies and entered Harvard Medical College, graduating in 1.S67. Dr. Willis was estab- 
lisheil as a physician three and one-half years in Weston, Mass., and came to Somerville.in 
1S71, where he still resides and practices his profession. He was married in 186S to 
Kugenia, daughter of the late William Stowe of Arlington, president of the American Net 
and Twine Company. They reside at 285 Broadway. Dr. Willis served on the Somervillc 
School Board four years, 1872 ft seq., is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, a 
nienii)er of the medical staff of the Somerville I lospital, and in his jirofession is widely and 
favorably know n. 

Wilson, Francis M., was born at Sterling, 111., December 24, 1858. With his parents 
he removed to Kansas City, Mo., and three years later, the father having died, the family 
removed to Lanark, 111., where, at the age of twenty, Mr. Wilson engaged in the furniture 
and undertaking business, in which he continued until May, 1893, when he came to Somer- 
ville. and purchased the old and well-known establishment of Horace D. Runey, at 10^ 
Cross street, where he still continues in ])usiness. Mr. Wilson was educated in the public 
schools of Sterling and Lanark, 111., and of Kansas City, Mo. He is a member of the Cen- 
tral Club, the John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., the Somerville Chapter, R. A. M., the De 
Molay Commandery, K. T., the Paul Revere Lodge, I. (). O. F., and the Excelsior Council, 
R. A. Mr. Wilson was elected to the Common Council in 1896. 

Winship, Albert Edward, author, editor of -Journal of Kducation, Boston, lecturer, 
son of Isaac am! Drusilla (Lothrop) Winship, was born at West Bridgewater, Mass., F'ebrii- 
ary 24, 1845. ^^^ '^ descentled from Lieut. luhvard Winship, who came to Camliridge from 
England in 1634. He studied in Bridgewater Normal School, Andover Theological Semin- 
ary; served as private in Sixtieth Massachusetts Jxegiment the last year of the Civil War. He 
taught tirst in Maine, going from that school to take charge of a grammar school in Newton, 
Mass., for three years, afterward teaching for four years in Bridgewater Normal. He was 
for nine years pastor of Prospect Hill Church in Somerville, leaving that charge to take the 
office of secretary of the New West Educational Commission. Since 1885 he has been editor 
and publisher of the Journal of Education. In 1890 and 1891 was editor-in-chief of the 
" Boston Daily Traveler." As a lecturer connected with Redpath Lyceum Bureau, he is 
widely known in every State from Maine to California, going regularly each year to the 
Pacific Coast. He has a wide reputation as a many-sided writer and campaign speaker. 
He has published " Methods and Principles," " Essentials of Psychology," etc. He is a 
menilier of the Republican State Committee of Massachusetts, and was a member of the St. 
Louis Convention that nominated McKinley. August 24, 1872, he married Miss Ella R. 
Parker, daughter of Stillman I^. and Lavinia P. Parker, of Reading, Mass. His children are 
(leorge Parker, Ivlith .\., Luella P., Edna E., Lawrence L., Mildred L. Winship. He has 
resided in Somerville for more than twenty years, and has been closely identified with public 
affairs. His residence is at 74 Perkins street. 

Woodberry, William H., was born in Newliuryport, Mass., August 18. 1855, the son 
of Orsment and Miriam P. (Johnson) Woodi)erry. He is essentially a Somerville boy, hav- 
ing moved here with his parents when less than two years of age. He was educated in tlie 
public schools of this city, and early in life went into business. He is well known in the 
pruilucf trade of Boston, having been for many years in the employ of S.Twin. Edwards & 




B. Frank Wild. 




Clarence H. Willey. 



S0MEK17LLE. PAST AND PRESENT. 653 

Co., and for the last six years a partner in the firm of R. S. Mduards & L'o., at 15 Blackstone 
street. In 1880 he became a member of Soley Lodge, A. F. and A. M., has always taken an 
active interest in Masonic affairs, and is the present master of the lodge. In 1887 ^^ ^^'^^ 
married to Miss Alice S. Farnum, of Warner, N. H., by whom he has had one daughter. Thev 
reside at 181 Central street. 

Woodcock, Shephard S., vvas bom Oct(jbsr 6, 1824. at Sidney, Kennebec Countv, 
Me. At the age of seventeen lie came to this state, and served four years as an apprentice 
at the Ijuilding trade; after the expiraliun of his apprenticeship he carried on the trade in 
Boston for over ten years, during which he gave much time to the stuily of his cJKjsen 
profession of architecture. He subsequently devoted much study to landscape gardening. 
and vvas for a time the landscape designer for the Public CJarden in Boston; he also laid 
out forty acres of land in Lowell for the late Samuel Fay, whose house he designed. During 
the past forty years he has designed and erected upwards of one hundred and forty churclies, 
and fifty schoolhouses, many of which are in this city, and various public liuiLHngs, hotels, 
institutions, etc., and numerous high-class residences, one of the finest being that of Mr. 
Frederick Ayer, of Lowell. Among the prominent structures designed and erected by Mr. 
Woodcock are the Howard Seminary at Bridgewaler, Mass., the Sanborn Seminary at King- 
ston, N. H., the high-school houses at Franklin, Mass., and Keene, N. H., and the Masonic 
Halls at Haverhill, Hudson, Natick, Abington, Attleborough and Chelsea, Mass. Many 
manufacturing buildings have been erected from his plans, such as the Pacinc Mill, and the 
woolen mill, one hundred and forty feet wide and four hundred and fifty feet long, at Law- 
rence, Mass. Many public buildings have lieen remodeled under his supervision, such as 
the Huntington Hall in Lowell, the City Hall in Haverhill, Mass., and the Rockingham Bank 
and the First National and Savings Bank of Portsmouth, N. H. He also furnished the de- 
signs for the soldiers' monuments in Lowell, Xatick and Dan vets, and was the architect in 
charge of the proposed alterations of the Masonic Tem]ile in Boston, liefore the fire; he 
finished the construction of the Rice Idbrary Budding at Kittery, Me., and was the architect 
for the dwelling-house of II. E. Wright on Pearl street, this city, illustrated in this volume. 
Mr. Woodcock is a prominent member of several societies, being a life member uf the Mass. 
Charitable Mechanic Association, a life member of the De Molay Commandery, K. 1'., a 
memlier of the Pine Tree State Club of Boston, the Sons of Maine, John Abbot Lodg% F. 
A. A. M., of Somerville, and Waveily Royal Arch Chapter of Melrose. Few architects have 
had the patronage from our best citizens that Mr. Woodcock has received, and his success 
has been phemimenal. His place of Inisiness is at 40 State street, Boston, and his home is 
at 38 Pearl street, this city, where he has resided with his family for more than thirty-five 
years. Mr. Woodcock has devote<l much time and thouglit to the development of Somer- 
ville, and has served the city three years as a member of the School Committee. 

Woods, Edward F., was born in .Somerville, March 14, 1864, the son of Henry F'. and 
Lucy Adams (Magoun) Woods. He attended the F'orster Grammar .School, and fitted for 
Harvard at the Somerville High School. Was graduated from Harvard University in 1885. 
Immediately after graduation, in order to obtain a business education, he spent two years in 
the Maverick National Bank. He then entered the fire insurance business as a clerk, and 
in six months became member of the firm of Crane iS; Woods to continue the insurance Imsi- 
ness established by Wesley C. Crane in 186S. A few years later a combination was made of 
the insurance agency business of Freeman ^; X'inton, Frederic Hinckley and Crane l\; Woods, 
under the name of Hinckley (.\: Woods. This fu-m are the head agents for Boston and vi- 
cinity of the Northern Assurance Co. of Lond(ni. the Equitable Fire (^ Marine Insurance Co. 
of Providence, the Northwestern National Insurance Co. of Milwaukee, and the Thuringia In- 
surance Co. of Germany. In 1891 he married Beitha L. Hutchins, daughter of Horatio H. 
Hutchins of Somerville, and moved to West Newtnn,'where he now resides. Mr. Woods is 





Francis M. Wilson. 



%3 



o 

> 



CO 



o 



H 



CT) 




^w^3. 







Edward F. Woods. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST .1X1) PRESENT. 657 

a member of the Central Club, of which he was formerly secretarv, Soley Lodge, A. V . and 
A. M., of Somer\ille, the Exchange Club and Chamber of Commerce of lioston, is a director 
in the South V.wA Industrial School, and is a member of the Newton Clui), the Neighl)orhood 
Club and the Xewton l]oat Club of Newton. 

Wright, Robert S., was born at the " North End," on Commercial street, Boston, March 
30, 185S. He was educated in the public schools of his native city, and graduated from the 
Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1876. The business in which he embarked was 
that of architectural draughtsman, and he is now a furniture designer, and has for fifteen years 
been connected w ith the firm of A. 15. >.V; K. L. Shaw as designer and superintendent of their 
large works in Ivist Cambridge. Mr. Wright came to Somerville in June, 18S9, ^'"1 h^s 
served the city in the (/ommon Council, and as a member of the IJoaril of Aldermen, 
lie is a member of the ('entral Club, the John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., the Order of Red 
Men, and the Designers' Club; he is also a director of the West Somerville Co-operative liank, 
and an associate member of Company M, Eighth Regiment. lie is married, and resides at 
1 1 Summit avenue. 



SUPPLEMENT 



The following biographical sl<etches were not received in time for insertion in their 
alphaljetical positions. 

Berry, Arthur W., was the son of John Adams and Mary (Wilile) Berry, and was 
born in Moidtonboro, N. IL, July 27, 1858, where he lived until eighteen, when, after re- 
siding in several places, he finally came to Somerville in 1882, and one year later went into 
the carpenter business with Charles .V. Slager, under the firm name of Berry iS: Slager. This 
copartnership lasted until 1888, when the firm was dissolved, Mr. Berry continuing alone, 
and erecting about seventy-five houses, s(.)me costing as high as $12,000. February 25, 1890, 
he married Miss Jennie Louise Knight, of Port Aupique, \. S., and occupied a new home on 
Hudson street. They have one child. Mr. Berry has revolutionary ancestry on both sides 
tif his parentage. His mother's grandfather, Daniel Conant, participated in the Concord 
ligiit, April 19, 1775, served in the war until the end, and was wounded. Mr. Berry is a 
steward of the First M. E. Church, is a member of the Sons of the Revolution, and the Y. 
M. C. A. In 1895 '^^ ^^'^^ elected a member of the Common Council, serving on three im- 
portant committees, and was re-elected for 1S97. 

Blaikie, Thomas B., was born in ( )nslow. near Truro, N. S., September 14. 1836, a son 
of John and Saraii Ann (Vuill) Blaikie. ( )ne of his ancestors, a snuff-dealer, came to this 
country from Scotland in the ship Hector in 1630, and settled near Boston. Mr. Blaikie, at 
the age of seventeen, came to Massachusetts, and worked at the carpenter's trade, which lie 
learned from his father, and he was employed in Brookline and East Boston, and on the 
People's Ferry, then being constructed. He went to Melrose, where he remained two 
years, and, at the age of nineteen, took the first contract on his own responsibility, and 
built a fine residence for his employer, earning great credit for his skill, industry and thor- 
oughness. He returned to Onslow, and on ( )ctober 15, 1857, married Eliza W'., daughter of 
Daniel and Margaret Cummings. He came to Cambridgeport, after working two years in 
his native town, and was foreman for a l)uililing firm when Ira Hill was about starting his 
speculative career, and Mr. Blaikie liecame interested with him, iniilding, lirst, several houses 
on Grand View avenue, then otliers in quick succession, until, when he had finished, he had 
Iniilt Hotel Warren, Hill liuilding, two Ijlocks of residences, a bakehouse, and several 




ARTHUR W. Berry. 



SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 659 

houses on Warren avenue. The next section of the city to receive his attention was the 
Prospect Hill district, and the bare hill soun hegan to l,l„ssom with pretty homes, three of 
which were occupied by Mr. lilaikie and two of his sons. It would be unnecessary to recapitu- 
late all the work done by Mr. Blaikie. The Prospect IIillChurch,CuniniingsSchool,andA<Tas- 
siz School in Cambridge, the Day-street Church, the Hudson-street district, the work clone on 
the Little estate in Boston, and others, are among the three hundred buihlings of various 
kinds which he has c.m.tructed, causing him to be the most extensive l.uilder Somerville has 
ever known. Mr. and Mrs. Blaikie have had three sons, Alfred C, E(Uvin K.. and Will ]•:., 
the former being in the real estate business, and the two latter lioston architects with Inie 
reputations for character and work. There are also two daughters, Ida May and Lena 
Blanche. Mr. Blaikie was one of the founders of Putnam Commandery No. 5S, V. ( ). ( ;. C, 
and is still a member. He has always taken a great deal of interest in poli\ic's, and is" an 
ardent Republican. Outside of his home his next heartbeat is for the Prospect Hill Church, 
where he and his family are highly esteemed members and officials in one degree or another! 
Clark, Herbert L., son of William L. and Mary Mellissa (Hanks) Clark, was born in 
South Boston, October 10, 1861. He received his e.lucation in the public schools of Somer- 
ville, and in Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College, Boston. IL- was employed as book- 
keeper in the cashier's office of the Boston & Maine Railroad for a year, then for eleven 
years served in the same cajmcity for Farley, Harvey & Co., of Boston. ' He left that firm to 
enter a partnership with his father in 1891, under the name of W. L. Clark .\; Co., contractors 
and builders. The firm is well known among master-builders, they having erected the 
Public Library, Stickney Building, Litchfield Block, the Citizen Building in Somerville; the 
Hotel Savoy, Colchester Hotel, Beacon street, Boston; the Parental School, West Roxbury; 
and many other notable edifices. Mr. Clark was a memijerof the (Common Council of Somer- 
ville in 1893 and 1894. He is at present Junior Warden of Soley Lodge of Masons, a mem- 
ber of Somerville Chapter, R. A. Masons, of ( )rient Council, R. S. M., and of De Molay 
Commandery, Boston, also of the Central Club and the A. O. U. W. He married Miss Lil- 
lian A. Loss of Old Town, Me., in 1SS7. His residence is at 124 Sycamore street, and his 
place of business at 17 Milk street and 166 Devonshire street, Boston. 

Dole, Charles A., son of Moses and Sarah Boardman (Titcoml)) Dole, was born in 
Danvers (now Peabody), Mass., December 4, 1826. He is of the seventh generation in de- 
scent from Richard Dole, who at the age of fifteen years landed at Newbury Old Town, Mass., 
emigrating from Bristol, England, in the year 1639. The Genealogical Register of January, 
1884, contains the following notice of Richard Dole : " Richard Dole, the first American an- 
cestor of all Doles of New England origin, and it is believed of most of those who liear the 
name in America, was baptized in Ringworthy, near Bristol, England, 1622 O. S. Ring- 
worthy had been the residence of his father. William, then living in Thombury, indented 
young Richard to ' John Lowle, Glover of Bristol.' When the brothers John and Richard Lowle 
and their father Percival, the ancestor of the present eminent family of Lowells, came to this 
country in 1639, they brought Richard Dole with them. The Lowle family settled in New- 
bury, Mass., and Richard Dole continued in their employ as a clerk, for a time. But he en- 
tered early, and with great activity and enterprise, upon business for himself. He long held 
a prominent place as a merchant in Newbury, and also became an extensive landholder, and 
left at his decease an estate of ^1,840 — a large property for those times. He built and made 
his home through life on the north bank of the river Parker, just below where ' Oldtown 
bridge ' is now located. He was a man of marked ability and upright character, influential 
and respected as a citizen and Christian. He died at the age of eighty-three years." The 
house he built is now standing and is well preserved. 

Educated in the public schools of Danvers, Mr. Dole, at the age of fifteen years, entered 
the employ of his uncle Wheeler, of the Salem Market House in Salem, Mass. He also 



660 SOMERl/LLi:. J'. 1ST IXD /'A'hSJ-X/. 

carried on a larjjL- slauj^hterinj;; ami packinj; business, supplying the numerous ships that at 
that period l)eK)nge(l to Salem. In the winter of 1S4S and 1S49 he caught the "gold fever," 
and joined the Salem and California Mining Company, who purchased the barque La Grange, 
sailing from Salem, March 17, arriving at the "Golden Gate," September 17, 1849. The 
(ompanv of sixty-live disbanded ( )ctober 29 following, and its members became scattered 
throughout the mining regions, of wliom only about twelve survive. After spending some 
vears in the " lantl of gold," he returned to his native place, an 1 in August, 1854, came to 
Somerville, and became superintendent for the well-known spice firm of Stickney dv I'oor at 
their factory in Charlestown, a position he has continued to hold for forty-two years, a ])ortion 
of the time as partner. He is a director in the Stickney vV Poor Spice Co., succeeding the old 
firm. In iSSj he was the originator of the first Society of California I'ioneers formed in the 
New England Stales, and at the present time is president of "The Society of California Pi- 
oneers of New England," numbering over three hundred members. In the year 1870 he built 
the residence on Perkins street, East Somerville, where he continues to reside. He has been 
twice marrietl, and has a daughter and two sons from the second union, all of whom are now 
living. 

Emerson, John Sherman, was bom in Kichnnmd, \'a., January 13, 1S59, being a direct 
descendant of Miciiael Emerson, who landed at Ipswich, Mass., in 1652. His daughter was 
Hannah Dustin, of Indian fame. Another descendant was Col. Nathaniel Emerson, of Can- 
dia, N. IL, who won distinction in the Revolutionary War. Mr. Emerson's father, Richard 
Emerson, of Candia, X. H., married Miss Margaret Wade. He saw service in the Mexican 
War, and in the latter jiart of the Rebellion followed the fortunes of Lee"s army as a band- 
master. He died in California. Two years later, his mother dying in Richmond, the subject 
of this sketch, then eight years of age, came north, attended the public schools of Haver- 
hill, Mass., and of Great Ealls, N. H. After two years at Sedgwick Institute, in Western 
Massachusetts, he entered the Bridgewater Normal School. Before compL-ting his course 
there he taught in a "little red schoolhouse " for a short time, and organized the village 
High School in Candia, N. H., which he taught for two years, afterwards returning to 
liridgewater, where he was graduated in 1881. He went directly from the Normal School to 
Rockland, Mass., to take charge of a grammar school. He left that position for a more lucra- 
tive one in Hingham; thence he went to <^)uincy, anrl later to M alien, having l)een induced 
in each instance to make the change for a larger salary. In .Vpril, 1894, Mr. Emerson 
entered upon the duties of his present position in charge of the O. S. Knapp School in this 
city. .Since his coming to the school the building has been enlarged by the addition of four 
rooms and a ward-room, and the membership has increased to upwards of six hundred pupils. 
Mr. Pjnerson's record is one of which any teacher might well be proud. He seems to have 
l)een born for the work of teaching, and his success commenced with his first experience, 
and has l)een continuous; and yet he is most unassuming. He came to Somerville with the 
unequivocal endorsement of such well-known educators as Mrs. Abbie M. Gaimett, Super- 
intendents C. A. Daniels and George E. Gay, of Maiden, and others. In April, 1890, at 
Maiden, he was married to Miss Charlotte L. Poison, who had been a successful teacher in 
Quincy, Mass., — a union which has contributed greatly to Mr. Emerson's success. 

Freeman, Benjamin F., son of Ivlwin A. and Fanny (jaycox) Freeman, was born at 
< )shkosh. Wis., September 23, 1854, and learned photography at the age of eighteen, in 
Rochester, N. V. Five years later he came to Somerville, establishing a small studio on Lin- 
coln street. It was considered a daring act for a young man of twenty-three to launch into 
an enterprise that had so questionable an outlook for success. But Mr. Freeman hail merit 
and push to assist him, and in two years he was obliged to go to his present studio, at 42 
Broadway. He had ascertained that the peoi)le in this city and vicinity would patronize him 
if he offered them the same inducements as could be had in the metropolis, and accordingly 




John Cj. Hall. 



662 soMi'.Riii.i.i:, I'Asr axd j'A'/:s/:\/\ 

he supi>lie(i every facility ami appDintnient fur the best \M>rk in every line Lif artistic photog- 
raphy; and the thousan<ls who have had the benefit of his services — many of them being 
represented in this work — can attest to his success and skill. The high grades of work 
have commanded universal praise, and many a home has l)een made more beautiful by one 
of his pastels of some dear friend. He married Miss A. A. Baldwin, of Fulton, X. V., in 
1S83, anil has a son and daughter. On his mother's siile, a trace in lineage is made direct 
to the renowned luhan .Mien. Mr. l-"reenian is a member of Soley Lmlge, and of the Pho- 
tographers' .Association of .\merica. 

Hall, John G., son of Lieut. Seth and Rhoda ((lilmore) Hall, was born in Raynham, 
Mass., ( >cto]ier 27, iSlo. lie left his birthplace at the age of sixteen, walked to Boston, 
and entered the employ of his brother, who was conducting a provision store at the corner 
of Cambridge and Temple streets. A few years afterwards he went into the shipping and 
commission business, at 64 Chatham street, with Frederick Ladd, under the firm name of 
Ladd & Hall, which, at the death of the senior member in 1S65, was changed to John C. 
Hall (S: Co. lie subsequently took his two sons, Herbert C. and Irving C, into business, 
who, at his decease, .August 10, 1881, succeeded him. Mr. Hall always enjoyed a name 
honored for his business integrity, excellent judgment, enterprise and industry. He married 
Sarah Cashing, daughter of Isaac Cushing, of Boston, in 1846, and they lived in Cambridge 
three years, when they occupied a new home erected for them at the corner of Summer and 
Belmont streets. It was among the first to be built on Spring Hill, and is still the Hall home- 
stead. Mr. Hall was always held in the highest esteem by his townsmen, and, as he took a 
lively interest in the welfare of Somerville, his services were often in demand. He was a 
member of the School Board from 1859 to 1865, a member of the Board of Selectmen from 
1869 to 1871, and of the first Board of Aldermen in 1872. His son, Herbert C. Hall, was 
a member of the Common Council in 1884 and 1885, and was president the latter year. 
Mr. Hall left a wife, five sons and one daughter, the latter being Mrs. Charles F. Ladd, of 
I'orlland, ( )ri-. 

Hathaway, Harry F., was born in Rutland, Mass., January 16, 1862, a son of Frank- 
lin and Mary A. (Uavis) Hathaway. When quite young his parents moved to this city, 
where Harry was educated in the Brastow, Lincoln, Luther V. Bell and High Schools, grad- 
uating from the latter in 1882, when he took a prominent part in the French dialogue at the 
class graduation. He was a bookkeeper for the Supreme Council of the Royal Arcanum 
three years, but wishing to continue in educational work, he went to the Bridgewater Normal 
School, where he remained four years, graduating in 1889. The same year he was elected 
principal of the Lincoln School, where he had once been wont to obey instead of to govern. 
The school had been removed from the former site on Flm street to the top of Clarendon 
Hill, a new building taking the place of the old one. Three years ago, when the Bingham 
.Schoolhouse was enlarged, it was deemed best to put a male principal over the school, and 
Mr. Hathaway was elected to succeed Miss Byard, and his duties have called forth the best 
elements in his make-up. He has had fine success, and the improvement has been very 
marked. Mr. Hathaway 's parents removed to \'inal avenue about fifteen years ago, when 
the locality was almost unoccupied with houses, but they have all participated in the great 
(levelopnient. In September, 1896, Mr. Hathaway married Miss Carrie E. Fay, one of his as- 
sistants in school work, and they now reside in the Hathaway home on Vinal avenue, the 
other members of the family having returned to the old homestead at Rutland, Mass. Mr. 
Hathaway is a genius in the way of teaching, availing himself of every possible means to the 
end that his scholars maybe thoroughly instructed. He has made two summer trips through 
Europe on the bicycle, in company with Mr. Harry N. .Andrews of the Dwight .School, Bos- 
ton, and learned much which he was able to impart tn his inipils. 




Dr. H. p. Hemenway 




en 






7^ 



Oi 



som]-:r\-jllk, past and present. 665 

Hemenway, Dr. Horace P., was Lorn at RocliL-ster,Vt., November 1 7,1831, and was a smi 
of Sitlney S. ami Miranda (Pierce) Memenway. lie lived for a time in Barton, Vt., but came 
a young man to Somerville, where he remained about thirty-tive years, until his death, March 
6, 1S96. lie married October 30, 1S55, Sarah K., daughter of Isaac S. and ISetsey (Davis) 
tiross, and had four chilh'cn, three of whom, (.'harles M., Sarah ( i. (Bell) and Louise R., 
survive him. He was a graduate nf the Harvard Medical School, and after grailuation was, 
iluring his w hole life, actively engaged in the jiractice of his profession in Somerville and the 
adjoining towns, where he was widely known and loved. He was at one time president of 
the Massachusetts Honneiipathic Medical Society. He was much interested in Masonry, was 
the tu-st Master of Soley Lodge, and was a past Eminent Commander of He Molay Com- 
mandery of Knights Templar of Boston. During his residence in Somerville he was in 
1S70 and 1S71 a member of the School Board. In 1888 he was again elected a member of 
the lioard, and his term had not expired at the time of his death. lie was a member of the 
l''irst (Orthodox (Congregational Church, and was always much interested in its welfare and 
active in its support. 

Niles, Loiiville V., was born in \orth Jay, .Me., in January, 1S39. He was the son 
ot X'aranes Xiles, who when an infant was left fatherless. The mother an<l her child left 
Randolidi, Mass., when he was about four years of age, and settled in Xorth }av. 'idle 
mother of the subject of this sketch was Mehitable Harris, of Cjreene, Me. Mr. Xiles passed 
his boyhood in his native town until i860, when he came to Boston, working in the provision 
business, ami in 1870 started out for himself, forming a copartnership with two brothers, 
under the firm name of Niles Brothers, which copartnership continued for twenty-six years, 
when it was merged into the Boston Packing and Provision Company. Industry, honorable 
dealing, and strict attention to liusiness have accomplished fine success for the house. Their 
establishments are located on Concord avenue, Cambridge, and North Market street, Bos- 
ton. Mr. Niles removed with his family from Boston in 1882, purchasing the Bradshaw 
estate on \\'alnut street, and eight years later built a new house on the old site, which ex- 
tends from Munroe to Boston street. 

Wemyss, George D., son of James and Margaret (Duncan) Wemyss, was born in 
Hawick, Scotland, in 1842. When he was a lad of twelve years the family located in 
Charlestown. Mr. Wemyss removed to Somerville in 1881. He has been prominent in 
j)ublic affairs, having served two years as Councilman and a like term on the Board of 
Aldermen. For about six years he has been a member of the Somerville Water Board, hav- 
ing Ijeen its president for the past four years. He is a member of Henry Price Lodge, A. 
1'. and A. M.,of Howard Lodge and liunker Hill Encampment, L O. ( >. F., all of Charles- 
town, and is a vice-president of the Scotch Charitable .Society, and a member of the British 
Charitable Society. Mr. Wemyss married Miss Agnes Elliott, of North Andover, Mass., on 
January 3, 1886. They have had four children; their two sons are now in school. Mr. 
Wemyss is engaged in the manufacture of furniture, his factory being located at 511 Med- 
ford street, Charlestown. He resides at 5 Austin street. 



1 N D E X. 



Aldrich, (apt. llarrisoii, portrait of, 407. 
Ancient Order of United Workmen, 404. 
Anderson, Rev. Cieorge S. K., church history 

•jy, 305- 

Andrews, James M., portrait of, 159; John, 

portrait of, 123. 
Arcadia Lodge, Knights of Pythias, 405. 
Armstrong, William M., portrait of, 375. 
Arnold, L. l-'rank, portrait of, 4.S5. 
Associated Charities, history of tlie, 351. 
Atkinson, Rev. Thomas, church history by, 

324- 

Backus, Edward, portrait of, 496. 

Bailey, Ernest W., portrait cf, 175; J. Warren, 
portrait of, 449. 

Baldwin, P'red C, portrait of, 199. 

Ball, John N., portrait of, 172. 

Banks of Somerville, history of the, 446. 

Baptist Church, E. Somerville, history of the, 
282; illustration of the, 2S1 ; First, history 
of the, 102, 285; illustration of the, 284; 
I'erkins-slreet, history of the, I02, 2S9; il- 
lustration of the, 330; Union Scjuare, his- 
tory of the, 290 ; illustration of the, 330; 
W^est Somerville, illustration of the, 330 ; 
Winter Hill, history of the, 290, 293; illus- 
tratif)n of the, 292. 

Barnes, Waller S., portrait of, 247. 

Baxter, George E., portrait of, 490; George 
I.., long term of service, 221, 233; jiortrait 
of, 223. 

Bean, James W., ]iortrait of, 492. 

Beekman, Rev. Garret, ])ortrait of, 322. 

Belknap, Austin, administration of as mayor, 
150, portrait of, 147. 

Bell, Luther V., jiortrait of, 192. 

Bennett, (lark, portrait ot', 192; Dana W., 
residence of, 494. 

Bentley, (ieorge W., residence of, 486. 

Pierry, J. E., residence of, 76; William IL, 
portrait of, 164; Arthur W., portrait of, 658. 

Bingham, Norman W., portrait of, 19 1. 

Binney, Martin, portrait of, 363. 

Bi(jgraphies, 484; supplementary, 657. 

Bishop, Iliram R., portrait of, 497; Rev. 
Nathan K., portrait of, 31 1 ; Resilience of, 
481. 

Blaikie, Thomas B., portrait of, 643. 

Bleachery, Middlesex, history of the. 78. 

Boston t\; Maine R. R. System, 465, 468; 

Boston, siege of, 57, i^8, 63, 69. 



Bradshaw, Charles 1 1., residence of, 4S1. 

]5rainard, (.harles V.., portrait of, 216a. 

Brastow, George, administration of as mayor, 
145, 149; I'ortrait of, 147. 

Breetl's Hill, battle of, 61. 

lirick-making in Somerville, 77, 460. 

Briggs, J. Albion, portrait of, 498. 

Brigliam, William E., history of the fire de- 
partment by, 269; history of the police 
department by, 253; Portrait of, 478. 

British and Hessian prisoners in Somerville, 

7], 74- 
liritish engineers, jilan of fortifications by, 

71- 

Broadway Congregational Church, history of 
the, 294; illustration of the, 296; Park, 
history, 134, 149: view on, frontispiece. 

Bruce, (Jeorge A., administration of as mayor, 
143; portrait of, 147. 

Bunker Hill, battle of, 53, 54. 

Burgoyne, General, surrender of, 70. 

liurlen, Lorenzo W., ]iortrait of, !;o3. 

liuriis, Mark !•'., administration of as mayor, 
153; portraits of, 151, 191. 

Butler, John Haskell, portrait of, 252. 

Butters, Charles S., ])ortrait of, 504; Rev. 
George S., Church history by, 317; por- 
trait of, 3H). 

Byani, William A., ])orlrait of, 83; residence 
of, 84. 

Caleb Rand Lodge, 1. O. O. F., 389. 

('ameron Lodge, Knights of Honor, 405. 

Carpenter, Allen ]•"., jiortrait of, 176. 

Carr, Martin W., portrait of, 184. 

Carville, Dr. .\li)honso H., portrait of, 339. 

Central Cluli .\ssociation, history of the, 415; 
Eire station, illustration of the, 279; Mill 
jiark, history of, 122, 157. 

Chamberlin, Mrs. Harriet A., portrait iif, 

39(J- 
Chandler, Leonard l'>., jiorirait of, 167. 
Charity Clul), history of the, 433. 
Chase, Daniel E., portrait of, 379. 
Cheney, Frederick E., jiortrait of, 400. 
Churches, history of the, 23' '°-' 282, 297, 

30S. 330. 
Citi/en building, illustration of the, 477. 
City charter, 126, 166, 1(19; city government, 

history of the, 145, 173; hall, im]irove- 

ments in the, 165; t>(Vicials, how appointed, 

166, 169. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST AM) J'KESEIVT. 



667 



Civil war. Soniei'ville's record in the, 105, 1 10, 
114, 117. 

Clark, Elijah ('., portrait 01,429; IlerbertL., 
portrait of, 637; Joseph, portrait 01,44; 
J. Foster, paper Ijy, 428; portrait ol, 430. 

Clarridge, George F., history ol the Y. M. 
C. A. by, 372; portrait of, 373. 

Coats, Rev. Orville, Church history by, 282. 

Coddington, Rev. I. P., Church history by, 328. 

Cole, Dr. Anna B. Taylor, portrait of, 349. 

Congregational Church, 15road\\ay, history of 
the, 294; illustration of the, 296; Day 
Street, history of the, 297; illustration of 
the, 13; Highland, history of the, 305; il- 
lustration of the, 307; Prospect Hill, his- 
tory of the, 306; illustration of the, 330; 
Winter Hill, history of the, 306; illustra- 
tion of the, 308. 

Congregational (Unitarian) Church, history 
of the, 102, 299; illustrations of the, 300, 
302. 

Constellation Lodge, Odd Padies, history of. 

403- 
Convent, Ursuline, destruction of the, 81, 82. 
Conversation Club, history of the, 435. 
Cox, Edward, portrait of, 511 ; residence of, 

512. 
Crosby, Cyrus F., portrait of, 520. 
Cummings, David, portrait of, 52; John A , 

administration of as mayor, 153; portrait 

of, 191. 
Cunningham, Thomas, portrait of, 19. 
Curtis, Dr. Henry F., portrait of, 340. 
Cushman, Charles A., portrait of, 453. 
Cutler, S. Newton, ]iortrait of, 188. 
Dana, N. B., portrait of, 398. 
Daughters of Maine Club, history of, 416. 
Davis, Joshua H., ]iaper by, on history of the 

schools, 177; portraits of, 179, 192; school 

superintendency of, 177, 194, 230. 
Davlin, James F., portrait of, 364. 
Day Nursery, estal^lishment and work of the, 

359- 
Day, Rev. William J., church history by, 290; 

portrait of, 291. 
Day Street Congregational Church, history of 

the, 297; illustration of the, 13. 
Dennett, Nathaniel, portrait of, 235. 
Derby Desk Company, history of the, 459; 

factory of the, 458. 
Dickerman, Frank E., portrait of, 414; 

(luincy E., portrait of, 187. 
Dodge, Albert L., portrait of, ^i: Seward, 

portrait of, 36. 
Dole, Charles A., portrait of, 644. 
Donovan, M. T., portrait of, 519. 
Duddy, Robert, portrait of, 120. 
Dunklee, Daniel D., portrait of, 56. 
Durell, Rev. George W., portraits of, 191, 

315; Julius A., portrait of, 522; Dr. Thomas 

AL, portrait of, 335. 
Durgin, Asa, portrait of, 20. 
Eames, Byron, portrait of, 524. 



Early churciies and schools in Somerville, 
T,^; grants, 17, 18; highways, 29, 30; in- 
dustries, 29, 77. 

East Somerville Baptist Church, history of tin-, 
282; illustration of, 281. 

Elierle, Philip, portrait of, 447. 

Edgerly, John S., efforts by, to establish a 
public library, 258; portrait of, 192. 

Educational Interests, paper on, 226. 

Electric tire alarm system, establishment of 
an, 149; street lighting, introduction of, 

. 1.54- 

Elliot, Charles D., ]iaper by, on Somerville's 
history, 17, 142; portrait of, 16; Mary E., 
paper by, on Willard C. Kinsley Relief 
Corps, 365 ; portrait of, 366. 

Elliott, Russell C, portrait of, 527. 

Elm Council, Royal Arcanum, 406. 

Elston, Abraham A., residence of. 528. 

Emerson, lohn S., portrait of, 216a. 

Emmanuel (Episcopal) Church, history of 
the, 310; illustration of, 312. 

English liigh School, illustration of the. 
219. 

Erminie (Rel)ekah) Lodge, history of, 401. 

Evangelical Church Association, 330. 

Exchange of prisoners, 61. 

F'arrell, Michael F., portrait of, 256. 

Fire department, history of the, 85, 94, 121, 
162, 269, 280. 

Fireman's Relief Association, 371. 

First Baptist Church, history of the, 102, 285 ; 
illustration of, 284; Congregational (Uni- 
tarian) Church, history of the, 102, 299; 
illustrations of, 300, 302; Mayor and Board 
of Akicrmen, portraits of, 128; Methodist 
Episcopal Church, history of the, 317; il- 
lustration of the. 320; ( )rthodox Congrega- 
tional Church, iiistory of the, 303: illustra- 
tion of the, 304 ; Universalist Church, his- 
tory of the, 324; illustration of the, 326. 

Fitch, Nathan A., portrait of, 48. 

Fitz, N. Everett, portrait of. 103. 

Mag of the United Colonies, new, first un- 
furled on Prospect Hill. 69. 

Flewelling, Dr. Douglas ( i.. portrait of, 531. 

Flint street Methodist Church, illustration of 
the, 330. 

Follett, Dr. A. Ward, portrait of, 532. 

P^oote, Edward, portrait of, 244. 

P'orster, Charles, portrait of, 192. 

Fortifications around Boston in 177^ plan of, 
15; erected in Somerville, 54, 57, Oi, 6(). 

I'Vazar, Douglas, portrait of, 148; Mrs. Mae 
D., paper by, on Daughters of Maine Club, 
416; portrait of, 417. 

Freeman, Benjamin F., portrait of, 640. 

Fresh Pond Ice Company, business of the, 
455; section of sheds of the, 456. 

Friendly Plelj^ers of the Poor, history of the, 

43^- 
Fuller. Frederick C, portrait of, 535; Stephen 
W.. jxirtrait of, 537; residence (il, 538. 



668 



soMERMLLi:, /'.isT .ixj> j'Ki:s/:xi: 



■ulton, Kc\-. Justin I)., cliurcli liistoiy hy, 

2S5; portrait of, 2S5. 
•'iirljcr, William H., ailministralion of as 

mayor. 149; portrait of. 14^. 
lalpin. Mrs. ISarbara, paj^er l»y, on ihi.- llep- 

torcan Club. 420; portrait of, 421. 
las. introduction of in Somervillc, 121. 
iiles, Joseph ]., portrait of, 542. 
• ilman, Charles K., long term of service of, 

I/O; portrait of, 44. 
iiroux, Aime E., residence of, 541. 
ilines, l-'dward, portrait of, 545; residence 

of, 546; Jacob r., portrait of, 191. 
lookin, Abijah 1>., portrait of, 113. 
lordon, Knima J., ]iortrait of, 346. 
louKI, Aaron 11., residence of. 548. 
low, Rev. John l\.. church history by, 2S9. 
iray, Kev. Andrew, church history by, 314; 

portrait of, 316. 
Ireene, General, headi|uartcrs of, illustrated, 

■ rimmons, ( harles A., residence of, 549. 

Iross, Jaazaniai), portrait of. 550. 

"luild, Chester, portrait of, 44. 1 

iunpowder, scarcity of among the American 
troops, 60; seizure of by the British, 45, 46. 

ladley, Ceorge W., portrait of, 556; S. 
Henry, portrait of, 204; ICmma Prichard, 
portrait of, 552. 

laigh, John, portrait of, 554. 

laley, Mary A., paper i)y, on charitable soci- 
eties, 433; portrait of, 434. 

I all, Horace E., residence of, 559; John C., 
portrait of, 661 ; \V. Eranklin, portrait of, 

243- 

lanscom. Dr. Sanford, portrait of, 195. 

larmony Council, Home Circle, 444. 

lartshorn. Dr. Edward, portrait of, 55S; 
Erank S.. portrait of, 560. 

lathaway, H. I-"., portrait of, 216a. 

laven, Mrs. Clara P., portrait of, 41 S. 

layden, J. <)., paper by, on Sonicrville 
banks. 445; i>ortrait of, 474. 

layes, John S., paper by, on the public li- 
brary, 25<S, 265; portrait of, 259. 

leadquarters of General Greene, 65; of 
General Lee, 61. 

lemenway, L>r. H. P., jiortrait of. 663. 

lenderson, l-'ranklin, portrait of, 79. 

leptorean Club, history of the, 420. 

lerbert, John, portrait of, 374. 

[essian prisoners <iuartered in Somerville, 

7'-. 

liggins. Solomon S., portrait of, 565. 
lighlancl Congregational Church, history of 

the, 305; illustration of the, 307. 
lighlands station, Boston tV .Maine R. R., 

464. 
ligh schools, history of the, 161, 21S, 222; 

illustrations of the. 2H). 
ligh water service introduced, 154, 245. 
lighways opened and improved, 29, 30, 78, 

85, 89, 1 18, 149, 161. 



Hill, Col. Herbert E.. portrait of, 566; Wil- 
liam P., portrait of, 196. 

Hillside Club, history of the, 425. 

HodgUins, l-'rank E., portrait of, 376; Wil- 
liam H., administration of as mayor. 15S; 
portrait of, 152. 

Hog Island, battle of. 58, 59. 

Holland. Silas Harvey, portrait of, 44S. 

Holt, Samuel W., portrait of 28. 

Home Circle, Harmony Council, 444; Somer- 
\ille Council, 444; Washington ( ouncil, 

443- 
Hopkins, James R., portrait of, 268. 
Hospital, history of the, 157, 333: illustration 

of the, 331. 
Howes. E. M.. portrait of, 60. 
Hubi)ard, Grrin ('., portrait of. 3S0. 
Hughes, Ali)ert E., portrait of, 358. 
Huntley, L. Iferberl. ])ortrait of, 156. 
Hurn, Mrs. Ilorence, i>aper by, 401 ; ])ortrait 

of, 402. 
Industries of Somerville, history of the, 29. 

77. 93. 94. 452- 

Ireland, George W., jtortrait of, 124. 

Ivaloo (Rebekah) Lodge, history of, 394. 

Jaques, Col. Samuel, as owner of Ten Hills 
Earm, 41, 77. 

John Abbot Lodge, E. A. .V A. M., 378. 

Jones, Melville 1)., portrait of, 155; William 
P., portrait of, 476. 

Journal Building, illustration of the, 473. 

Kaan, Erank W ., portrait of. 381. 

Kelley, John, portrait of, 573. 

Kellogg, Dr. Erederick L., portrait of, 574. 

Kennard, J<;hn E., portrait of, 399. 

Keyes, Amos, portrait of, 35; Emma S.. 
paper by, on the Associated Charities, 351. 

Kimball, Ered M., portrait of, 104; George 
.\., portrait of, 240. 

Kinsley, Willard C, record of, 361; Post, 
G. A. R., history of the, 361 ; Relief Corps, 
history of the, 365. 

Knapp, Oren S., portrait of, 191. 

Knights of Honor, Mt. Benedict Lodge, 
404. 

Lacount, Eugene I)., portrait of, 96. 

Lamont, Andrew A., portrait of, 391. 

Landmarks, old, described, 141, 142. 

Lapham, E. DeWitt, portrait of, 579. 

Last board of selectmen, portraits of, 127. 

Lawrence, Bernard W., portrait of, 275; res- 
idence of, 276. 

Leavitt, Rev. Horace II., church history l>y, 
294; portrait of, 295. 

Lee, Gen. Charles, head(|uarters of, 61. 

Lexington, battle of, 50, 31. 

Library, i)ublic, growth of the, 153. 261. 265; 
history of the, 149, 133, 258, 265; illustra- 
tion of the, 260; officers of the, 265. 

Linccjln, Charles S., portraits of, 192, 263. 

Little Sisters of the Poor, history of, 438. 

Locke, Marshall IL, portrait of, 31. 

Lockharl, Charles IL, residence of, 5S0. 



SOMERllLLE, PAST .lA'D rRESHNT. 



669 



Lombard, I-'rank G., portrait uf, 24S; Henry ] 
F., portrait of, 99. 

Longfellow Lodge, (Jdil Ladies, 403. 

Loring, George F., residence of, 5S3. j 

Lovejoy, Benjamin P., portrait of, 585; res- 
idence of, 586. 

Lowell, C. \\'., residence of, 5S7; Howard, 
portrait of, 588; Joseph (^)., p(jrtrait of, I 

590. ! 

Lowe, Mrs. Martha P., portrait of, 439; re- 
miniscenes of vSomerville by, 439; Kev. j 
Charles, portrait of, 440. 
Loyal Orange Institution, 445. 
Luce, Robert, paper by, on Sons of Maine 

Club, 415; portrait of, 413. 
Macomlier, George A., residence of, 592. 
Mac*^ueen, Rev. Peter, church history by, j 

297; portrait of, 298. 1 

Magoun, John C, portrait of, 44. 
Mann, Alfred F., portrait of, 594; Jairus, por- j 

trait of, 14S. I 

Map of Somerville as it was in 1S30, 72. 
Martyr roll, the, in the civil war, 117. 
Mayor, powers and duties of the, 169. 
McLean Asylum, establishment of the, 81. 
Meleney, Clarence F., portrait of, 14S; su- 

perintendency of schools of, 194, 233. 
Memorial tablets, erection of, 141, 142, 157. 
Mentzer, Walter C, portrait of, 135; resi- 
dence of, 136. 
Mercer, William L., residence of, 595. 
Merrill, Dr. Arthur F., portrait of, 68; Frank 

F., history of the water-works l)y, 237; 

portrait of, 236. 
Methodist Episcopal Church, First, history of 

the, 317; illustration of the, 320; Park 

Ave., history of the, 318; illustration of 

the, 321. 
Metropolitan water system to be estal)lished, 

249. 
Middlesex bleachery, history of the, 78. 94. 
Middlesex Canal, history of the, 78. 
Middlesex street railway, history of the. 471. 
Military prowess of the pioneers, ;,],. 
Miller's river, description of in early times, 

21; nuisance of, 136, 146; pollution of, 

134- 

Mink, Louis, residence of, 596. 

Moore, Henry M., portrait' of, 63; Howard 
D., portrait of, 163. 

Morse, Fnoch R., portrait of, 192. 

Moulton, Rev. Fdwin P., church history by, 
286; portrait of, 287. 

Mount Benedict Lodge, K. LL, 404. 

Mount Horeb Lodge, L. O. L, 444. 

Mystic Lake, description of, 23S. 

Mystic River in early times, 21. 

Nathan Tufts Park, history of, 137. 

New Day Street Congregational Church, il- 
lustration of, 13. 

New residences on Highland Avenue, 564; 
on Westwood Road, 482, 483. 

Newton, Dr. Frank L., portrait of, 345. 



Nichols, G. Leslie, ]iortrait of, 1 00. 
Nickerson, Alvano T., portrait of, 27; John 

F., portrait of, 23. 
Niles, Louville \'., residence of, 6(14. 
Noddle's Island, battle of, 58, 59. 
Norcross, |. Leland, jiortrait of, 601. 
North Packing and Provision Co.. 452, 454. 
Nourse, Mrs. J. L'., jiortrait of, 602. 
Noyes, Frank A., portrait of, 392; Kev. 

Charles, church history by, 30O. 
Oasis Lodge, I. O. O. F., history of, 390. 
O'Brien, Rev. James J., church history by, 310. 
Odd Fellows' Building, illustration of, 38b. 
Old landmarks, desciiptiou of, 141, 142; 

powder-house, history of the, 41, 42, 157, 

158; illustration of the, 43. 
Orient Council Royal and Select Masters, 378. 
( )rigin antl early settlement of Somerville, 

'7' i8- 

Orthodox Congregational Church, First, his- 
tory of the, 303; illustration of the, 304. 

Osgood, Dr. H. D., residence of, 1 12. 

Parker, Frederick W., portrait of, 606. 

Park Avenue Methodist Episcopal Church, 
history of the, 318; illustration of the, 321. 

Park, Elbridge G., portrait of, 604. 

Parkhurst, Melville C, portrait of, 255. 

Parks and ijoulevards, 122, 134, 137, 157. 

Parks, C. E., paper by, on Central Club, 415. 

Parsons, Capt. Horace M., portrait of, 411. 

Paul Revere Lodge, I. < ). ( ). V., history of, 

I 390, 393- 

Paul Revere's ride, 49, 50. 
' Peasley, Dr. Emma J., paper by, 347: por- 
trait of, 348. 
Perkins, George W., portrait of, 212. 
j Perkins Street Baptist Church, history of, 

102, 289; illustration of, 330. 
I'erry, Albion A., administration of as mayor, 

165; portrait of, 143; Oliver IL, portrait 

of, 450. 
Phillips, Dr. Eugenie M., portrait of, 350; 

Franklin F., portrait of, 609. 
Pierson, Rev. William IL, portrait of, 301. 
Pioneer settlers of Somerville, 18, 22, 26. 
Pillsbury, Luther B., portrait of, 232. 
Pitman, Henry W., history of Somerville 

Light Infantry by, 409; portrait of, 40S. 
Plan of fortifications around Boston in 1775, 

15; in Somerville, 71. 
Police Court, history of the, 256. 
Police department, history of the, 253, 257; 

signal system, introduction of the, 154; 

station, illustration of the, 257. 
Poole, George S., residence of, 220. 
Poor, Franklin N., portrait of, 32. 
Pope, Charles G., administration of as mayor, 

154 : jiortrait of, 19 1. 
Post 139, G. A. R., history of, 361. 
Potterton, Rev. T. E., church history by, 327. 
Powder house, old, history of the, 41, 157; 

illustration of the, 43. 
Powers, Rev. Levi M., church history by, 324. 



670 



SOMERilLI.]-:, IWST AM) J'RKSKXr. 



I'ratt, Josiali \., portrait of, i6o. 
I'rt-slon, Fred, portrait of, 431. 
I'richard, John 1'., portrait of, 612. 
I'roctor. (leurije ( )., ]iortrait of, 22S. 
IVospcct Hill Conj,'rcjjaiioiial Church, histor)- 

of, 306; illustration of, 330. 
I'rospect Hill Station, 467. 
I'uhlic I,il)rary. See I.ilirary. 
Railroad facilities of Sonierville. 133, 4(15, 

47'- 

Railroads, lirst through Somerville, 78. 79. 

Railroads and street railways, history of, 78, 
90. 125, 130. 133, 393, 465, 471. 

Ralph, NIrs. Harriet A.. i)aper by, 393; por- 
trait of, 395; William 11., portrait of, 387. 

Raniona (Rehekah) Lodtje, historv of, 

397- 

Randall Memorial Kree Will 15aptist Church, 
history of, 2S6; illustration of, 28S. 

Raymond, i-'rancis H., portrait of, 21 1; Mar- 
cus M., portrait of, J71 . 

Rebellion, Somerville"s record in the, 105, 
III, 114,361, 365- 

Reed, Nathan H., residence of, 3!;3. 

Reminiscences of Somerville, iiy Martha P. 
Lowe, 339. 

Reservoir for water, description of the, 241. 

Residences on Highland Ave., new, 564; on 
West wood Road, new, 481, 482, 483. 

Revere, Paul, ride of, through Somerville, 49, 
50. 

Revolution, beginning of the, 45. 

Rich, (apt. Lyman B., residence of, 615; 
Wilfred H., portrait of, 616. 

Robinson, Knoch, residence of the late, 39. 

Rowell, Cromwell (j., portrait of, 24. 

Russ, (jeorge H. ])ortrait of, 388. 

Kussell, Irving L., portrait of, 132. 

Rymes, Christopher \\., portrait of, 264. 

.Samaritan Society, history of the, 355. 

Sanborn, Alexander A., portrait of, 108; 
Caleb L., portrait of, 64; Charles V>., resi- 
dence of, III; Daniel W., portrait of, 95; 
David A., portrait of, 271; Dr. Edwin A., 
portrait of, 87; Frank S., pt)rtrait of, 622; 
Helen J., paper by, on the Hillside Club, 
425; j)ortrail of, 424; James S., portrait of, 
369; residence of, 370; William .\., por- 
trait of, 461. 

Sargent, Aaron, portrait of, 148. 

Sawyer, Charles W., portrait of, 267. 

School lioards, prominent men on, 230. 

School exhil)its, 210; statistics, 205, 213, 214, 
221; superintendents, 177, 194, 202, 218. 

Schools, history of the, 33, 85, 98, 10 1, 154, 
177, 189, 229; illustrations of, 207, 208, 
215, 216, 219. 

Selectmen, last board of, portraits of, 127. 

Semi-centennial anniversarv, celebration of 
the, 158. 

Sewers, history of the, 121, 122, 165. 

Shattuck, Frederick W., portrait of, 200. 

Siege of l>(jston, 57, 58, 63, 69. 



Simonds, Edwin X., portrait of, 4^2. 

Sinking fund, application of the, 154. 

Smith. iJr. Frederick (".., jiortrait of, 55. 

.Soley Lodge, F. .A. i\: A. M., history of, 3S3. 

.Somerville, as it was in 1830, map of, 72; 
banks of, 44(), 451 ; Ch.-ipter, R. .\. .M., 
history of, 377; Churches and schools, 
early. 33, 85; " Citizen," building, illustra- 
tralion of, 477; "Citi/en," history of the. 
479; Co-operative bank, history of the. 
451; Council, Home Circle, 444: Council, 
Royal Arcanum, 406; Encamp. LO. O. F., 
385; Guard in the Rebellion, 113; High- 
lands Station, illustration of, 464: H(js- 
l)ital, history of the, 331, 341; illustration 
of the, 331 : industries of, 29, 77, 78, 452; 
"Journal" hist(jry of the, 475; " Journal " 
building, illustration of the, 473; Light 
Infantry, history of the, 97, no, 409, 412; 
Literary .Association, history of^ the, 436; 
Lodge, A. (). V. W., history of, 404; Na- 
tional bank, history of the, 44:^; reminis- 
cences of, 339; separation of, from Charles- 
town, 85; Savings bank, history of the, 

445- 

Sons of Maine Clul>, history of the, 415. 

Souther, Ezra I)., portrait of, 131. 

Southworth, .Vmasa E., portrait of. 384; Cor 
don .v., portrait of, i8o; superintendency 
of schools of, 202, 233. 

Sparrow, Edmund S., portrait of, 231. 

Sprague & Hathaway Co., history of the, 45 V 

Squire, John P., jiortrait of, 626. 

St. Ann's Catholic Church, history of, 309; 
St. Catherine's Catholic C hurch, history of, 
310; St. James Episcopal Church, history 
of, 317; St. Thomas' I-:])iscopal Church, 
history of, 314; illustration of, 330; Si. 
A'inceni dc Paul Societv, historv of the, 

437- 

Starbird, Geiirge M., portrait of, 628. 

Statistics of travel on the 15. i\; M. R. R. sys- 
tem, 468; on the West End Street Rail- 
way system, 471. 

.Stockwell, Fred F., residence of, 630. 

Stodder, Frederick M.. portrait of, n6. 

Story, Isaac, portrait of, 251. 

Sturtevant, (Jeorge ]•'., portrait of, 107; l.ind- 
ley J., portrait of, 80; Richard H., resi- 
dence of, 272. 

Sufl'rage League, history of the, 43(1. 

Tank Cars, N. E. ( )il Co., illustration of, 4()3. 

Tarbox, F. O. J.> portrait of, 174. 

Taylor, Charles II., portrait of, 140. 

lead. Rev. Edward S., Church history by, 
306. 

Teele, I'rank A., portrait of. <)2; Samuel, 
portrait of, ii'})}^. 

Ten Hills Farm, descri]ition and o\\ners of. 
21, 22, 26,37, 38.4', 77- 

Thorpe, Herbert, portrait of, ()34. 

Troops furnished l)y Somerville in the (.'ivil 
War, 105. lof), MO. 409, 410. 



SOMERVILLE. FAST AND PRESENT. 



671 



Tufts College, history of, 13S, 141 ; illustra- 
tion of, 139. 

Tufts, Francis, portrait of, 47; House, head- 
quarters of Gen. Lee, illustration of, 61; 
Nathan, heirs of, donation of land to the 
city by, 157; Park, establishment of the, 

I57> I'sS. 
Union Glass Works, history of the, 94, 457; 
vSquare Baptist Church, history of the, 
290; illustration, of the, 330; Presbyterian 
Church, history of, 324; illustration of, 

325- 

Unitarian, Urst Congreijational (Jnuch, his- 
tory of the, 299; illustraliiins of the, 300, 
302. 

Universalibt Church, Pirst, history of the, 
324; illustration of the, 326; Third, history 
of the, 327; Winter Hill, history of the, 
328; illustration of the, 329. 

Ursuline Convent, destruction of the, Si, 82. 

Vacations and holidays, 193, 194. 

\'ie\v on Broadway, Frontispiece. 

Mncent, George I., history of the city govern- 
ment by, 14c;, 173; portrait of, 144. 

^Yade, Rufus R., portrait of, 638. 

Wadleigh, William Y., residence of, 75. 

Wadsworth, George M., portrait of, 2i0a. 

Ware, Frank A., portrait of, 88. 

Water Supply of Somerville, history of the, 
121, 153, i'54, 237, 249. 

^^'aters, Elizabeth A., paper liy, on the Sa- 
maritan Society, 355; portrait of, 357. 

Webcowit Club, history of the, 42S. 

Weld, William H, portrait of, 59. 

Wellington, J. Frank, portrait of, 266. 

^^'emyss, George 1)., portrait of, 239. 

Wendell, Mina J., portrait of, 203. 

^Vent\vorth, Thomas S., portrait of, 183. 

West End Street Railway, history of the, 
133, 471, 472; electric car, illustration of 
an, 469; car-house, 470. 

West, Mrs. Anna 1)., jiortrait of, 422. 



West Somerville, Baptist Church, illustration 
ot the, 330; Co-operative bank, history of 
the, 451. 

West«'(iod Road, history of, 4S0; residences 
on, 482, 483. 

White, Dr. Emory L., portrait of. 354; Dr. 
liorace C, history of the hospital b\-, 333; 
portrait of, 332. 

Whiting, Dr. C;^ W .\V., portrait of, 343; resi- 
dence of, 344. 

Whitcomb, Charles T. C., portrait ot^, 224; 
Irvine A., residence of, 426. 

Wild, B. Frank, portrait of, 651. 

Wiley, Isaiah H., portrait of, 647. 

Wilkms, G. Franklin, portrait of, 648. 

Willard C. Kinsley ]\)st, ( \. A. R., history of, 
361 ; Relief Corps, history of, 365. 

\Villey, Clarence H.. portrait of, 652. 

Williams, Charles, Jr., portrait of, 67. 

Willis, Dr. Reuben, portrait of, 336. 

Wilson, Francis JM., portrait of, 654. 

Winship, Rev. Albert E., paper by, on Ed- 
ucational Interests, 226; portrait of, 227. 

Winter Hill ISaptist Church, history of the, 
290; illustration of the, 292. 

Winter Hill, Club, history of the, 433; Con- 
gregational Church, history of, 306; illus- 
tration of, 308; Encampment, I. O. O. F., 
history of, 385; Station, 466; Universalist 
Church, history of, 328; ilUustration of, 

329- 
\^'inthrop, Governor, domiciled on Ten Hills 

Farm, 26, 37, 38. 
Woman's Christian Temperance Union, 371. 
Woodberry, William 11., portrait of, 382. 
Woodcock, Shephard S., portrait of, 91. 
Woods, Edward F., portrait of, 656. 
Wright, Henry E., residence of, 40; Robert 

S., residence of, 168. 
Wyman, Charles B., residence of, 655. 
Yard and Sheds of Fresh Pond Ice Co., 459. 
Young Men's Christian Association, 372. 



